Switch on the Laser for Vitiligo Therapy

The Q-switched ruby laser may represent an alternative approach to depigmentation in extensive vitiligo.

For many patients with vitiligo, the primary objective of management is restoration of pigment to the vitiliginous plaques. But when the vitiligo is extensive, repigmentation may not be realistic, and depigmentation may be the best option. In times past, this could only be achieved with depigmenting chemicals. More recently, there have been reports that the same results could be achieved with Q-switched ruby (QSR) lasers. These authors conducted a retrospective evaluation of the long-term efficacy and safety of depigmentation using 694-nm QSR lasers in patients with extensive vitiligo.

Outcomes in 27 people with vitiligo seen at a single institution from 2000 to 2010 were evaluated. Response was assessed by comparing photographs taken before…

Reviewing Author

Craig A. Elmets, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Astellas Pharmaceuticals

EquityVaxin

Grant / Research support NIH; NIH/NCI; Veteran’s Administration; Ferndale Laboratories; Kyowa Hakko Kirin Pharma, Inc.

Editorial boards Cancer Prevention Research; Photodermatology, Photoimmunology, & Photomedicine; UpToDate; eMedicine; Journal of Dermatological Sciences; JAMA Dermatology

Leadership positions in professional societies American Academy of Dermatology (Vice Chair, Committee on Science and Research); Photomedicine Society (Board of Directors)