Use of a 585 nm pulsed dye laser for the treatment of morphea.

INTRODUCTION The clinical presentation of morphea varies from localized plaques to generalized eruptions. Its cause remains unknown and medical treatments have often proved unsatisfactory. Studies have previously shown that improvement of hypertrophic scars and fibrotic skin can be achieved with the use of a 585 nm pulsed dye laser (PDL). METHODS A case of plaque-type morphea was treated with 585 nm pulsed dye laser irradiation at an average fluence of 5.0 J/cm2 at bimonthly time intervals. RESULTS Marked clinical improvement as evidenced by improved pliability and skin coloration was seen after 4 successive PDL treatments. No side effects or complications were encountered. CONCLUSION Pulsed dye laser therapy is a viable treatment option for morphea. The mechanism of its effect in this condition remains unknown.