Comparison of efficacy of cryotherapy vs Q-switch Nd:YAG Laser in the treatment of solar lentigines
Keywords:
Solar lentigines, cryotherapy, Q-switch Nd, YAGAbstract
Background Solar lentigines are local and benign proliferation of melanocytes at the dermo-epidermal junction. These lesions are several, yellow or brown, oval or round macule with obvious margins present at areas such as back of the hands, forearm, and face, which are exposed to sunlight. Physical therapy of solar lentigines includes cryotherapy, laser therapy, pulsed light, and chemical peels. Methods A total of 120 patients (60 patients in each group), fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria, were enrolled in the study. Group A was treated with cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen by applying it with cotton swab at -20 oC). Cryotherapy was done on every 15th day for a total of 8 sessions. Group B was treated with Q-switch Nd: YAG Laser for a total of 8 sessions. A five-point grading scale was used to assess the efficacy of both treatments. Results Mean age of patients in group A was 38.48±10.79 and in group B was 39.23±11.31 years. Statistically significant difference in efficacy was found in Q-switch Nd: YAG laser group as compared with cryotherapy (p=0.007). Most of the patients in both groups showed grade 2 (Fair) and grade 3 (Good) response. Conclusion Q-switch Nd: YAG laser therapy is superior to liquid nitrogen cryotherapy for the treatment of solar lentigines.ÂReferences
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