Low-fluence Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (1064nm) laser for the treatment of facial melasma in local population
Keywords:
Melasma, pigmentation, Q-switched Nd, YAG laser, MASI scoreAbstract
Objective To determine the efficacy and safety of Q-switched Nd:YAG 1064nm laser for melasma treatment. Methods Thirty patients with melasma were treated with Qs-Nd:YAG laser 1064nm, 6mm spot size with 2.5-3.2J/cm2 for four sessions 2 weeks apart. Pigmentation was assessed objectively with photographic evaluation and by decrease in the MASI score and subjectively by decrease in pigmentation assessed by grades of improvement. Patients were assessed 8 weeks after the last session. Adverse effects were recorded at each visit. Results After four sessions, 20 (65%) of patients showed marked improvement, 6 (20%) showed moderate improvement and 4 (13%) showed poor response after 14 weeks of treatment. No significant side effects were noted. A decreased MASI score was significant at the end of 14 week’s evaluation (p<0.05). Recurrence occurred in only 10% of patients who were advised to wear sunblock afterwards. Conclusion Q-switched Nd:YAG 1064nm laser is an effective and safe treatment of melasma in our local population.ÂReferences
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