Treatment of nevus of Ota with the Q-switched alexandrite laser

Background and Objective: Q-switched laser systems have been shown to be useful for removal of nevus of Ota, a pigmented lesion on the face. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Q-switched alexandrite laser in the treatment of nevus of Ota in 13 patients. Study Design/Materials and Methods: A spot test was made at 6.0, 7.0, and 8.0 J/cm(2) energy fluence, and the best energy fluence was selected after a 2-month postoperative evaluation. Q-switched alexandrite laser with a mean fluence of 1.29 +/- 0.46 J/cm(2) was used at 8-week intervals. Total treatment ranged from 1 to 15 sessions (mean 7.1 +/- 5.1 sessions). The single shot technique was used. Results: More than 75% lightening was achieved in seven patients, between 51% and 75% in three, less than 50% in one, and less than 25% in one. In two patients with excellent clearance, a very light gray macula in the lower eyelid persisted after 8 and 14 treatment sessions, respectively. Mild transient hypopigmentation that subsided spontaneously after 2 months was observed in one patient. No repigmentation was seen. Conclusion: The Q-switched alexandrite laser seems to be an effective and safe modality for the treatment of nevus of Ota. (C) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.