Efficacy of 1,064 nm Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser treatment for the Nevus of Ota

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of 1064nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser in the treatment of Nevus of Ota. Methods: This study was conducted in Department of Dermatology, Unit-II, KEMU/Mayo Hospital, Lahore. A total of 100 patients of nevus of Ota (both unilateral and bilateral) with Fitzpatrick skin type III to V were included in this study. Baseline photographs and Pigment area and Severity Index (PSI) score was recorded. All patients were treated with 1064nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser at fluence of 500-600 V and frequency of 5Hz. A total of 10 sessions at 2 weeks interval were given. Final assessment was done at 4 weeks after last session. Improvement was measured in terms of percentage reduction in baseline PSI score. Results: Mean age of the patients was 24.35±5.70 years. There were 15 males and 85 females. Majority of the patients had duration of lesion > 15 years. Most of the patients presented with skin type IV. Out of 100 patients, 52 patients showed more than 50% clinical improvement. Improvement was higher in females (56%) and in patients with skin type III (50%) and IV (60%). Stratification with regards to age and duration of lesion showed no statistically significant difference. Conclusion: Fifty two % of patients of nevus of Ota treated with 1064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser showed more than 50% improvement.