Safety and Effectiveness of a New 532 nm, Long Pulse-Duration, Variable Pulse Structure Laser for Treatment of Poikiloderma of Civatte

Background

Poikiloderma of Civatte is a benign skin condition characterized by reticulate erythema and hyperpigmentation in sun-exposed areas, predominantly on the neck, cheeks, and chest. Chronic UV exposure leads to vascular proliferation and red cell extravasation resulting in hemosiderin and melanin deposition. While many light-based modalities have been utilized to treat the disorder, the significant vascularity makes it ideally suited for treatment with vascular lasers.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a new, long-pulse-duration, Nd:YAG laser incorporating a KTP frequency-doubling crystal and cryogen spray cooling for the treatment of Poikiloderma of Civatte.

Methods

Twenty subjects with neck and/or chest redness were enrolled in this study and treated using the 532 nm wavelength to treat neck and chest redness. Four treatments were administered at monthly intervals and pre- and 2-month posttreatment images were obtained. Images were randomized and evaluated by three physician evaluators for degree of improvement.

Results

Average improvement 2-months posttreatment were 74.1 ± 20.2% and 68.4 ± 20.5% for the neck and chest, respectively (p < 0.0001). Side effects were minimal and limited to posttreatment erythema, edema, and purpura.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that this new long pulse-duration, Nd:YAG laser incorporating a KTP frequency-doubling crystal using the 532 nm wavelength is safe and effective for the treatment of Poikiloderma of Civatte.