A retrospective study looking at the long-term complications of Q-switched Ruby laser in the treatment of nevus of Ota

Background and Objective: Despite the extensive use of QS Ruby, there is no report looking at its long-term complication in the treatment of nevus of Ota. To look at the long-term complications of nevus of Ota patients treated with QS Ruby laser. Study Design/Materials and Methods: A teaching hospital in Japan where over 400 patients with nevus of Ota had been treated since 1984. Hundred and one nevus of Ota patients that had been treated with QS Ruby laser, but had not received treatment for 12 months prior to the study, were called back for further assessment. Patients were called back to the hospital where they were interviewed and examined by two independent clinicians. Results: Hypopigmentation was the most common complication, affecting 16.8% of the patients and 5.9% had hyperpigmentation. One patient that had complete clearance post-laser surgery developed recurrence. Conclusion: QS Ruby laser is effective in the treatment of nevus of Ota. Recurrence is rare, but hypopigmentation is common and can be permanent. Further prospective study comparing its use with other Q-switched lasers is necessary. (C) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.