title: Applications of the Excimer Laser: A Review.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The 308-nm excimer laser has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of psoriasis and vitiligo. Its ability to treat localized areas has led to many studies determining its potential in the treatment of focal diseases with inflammation or hypopigmentation.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To review the different applications of the 308-nm excimer laser for treating dermatologic conditions.
  
  
  METHODS
  An extensive literature review was conducted by searching PubMed, MEDLINE, and ClinicalKey to find articles pertaining to dermatologic conditions treated with the 308-nm excimer laser. Articles published that contributed to new applications of the excimer laser were included, as well as initial studies utilizing the excimer laser.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The outcomes and results were compiled for different dermatologic conditions treated with the excimer laser.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The 308-nm excimer laser has a wide range of uses for focal inflammatory and hypopigmented conditions. Treatment is generally well tolerated, with few adverse reactions. Larger studies and studies evaluating the long-term effects of the 308-nm excimer laser are needed.
authors.affiliation: *All the authors are affiliated with the Department of Dermatology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC.
authors.forename: Sarah
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Beggs
authors.forename: Jack
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Short
authors.forename: Monica
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Rengifo-Pardo
authors.forename: Alison
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Ehrlich
mesh_terms: D000506:Alopecia Areata / Q000532:radiotherapy; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000532:radiotherapy; D006801:Humans; D017496:Hypopigmentation / Q000532:radiotherapy; D054018:Lasers, Excimer / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000532:radiotherapy; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D014467:Ultraviolet Therapy; D014820:Vitiligo / Q000532:radiotherapy