Treatment of disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis (DSAP) with the Q-switched ruby laser.

BACKGROUND Disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis (DSAP) is one clinical subtype of porokeratosis, a cutaneous disorder of keratinization. A variety of approaches may be used to treat DSAP. The ruby laser appears to be a promising option for DSAP treatment. Traditionally, the ruby laser is used to treat hair removal and lesions involving hyperpigmentation. Its use may be further applied to treat the hyperpigmented lesions of DSAP. OBJECTIVE This study examines the efficacy of the ruby laser in treating a case of DSAP. METHODS A 48-year-old female, with a history of pseudoxanthoma elasticum and DSAP, received three Q-switched ruby laser treatments (694 nm) to over 50 sites on the lower and upper extremities. Clinical outcome and patient satisfaction was followed-up. RESULTS Minimal to moderate erythema and appropriate whitening was noted after each treatment. The patient tolerated treatments well and hyperpigmentation and erythema of the majority of the lesions decreased. The patient was very pleased with the results and reports satisfactory cosmetic outcome 3 months later. CONCLUSION The results obtained from the current case suggests that the ruby laser is moderately successful in treating DSAP and may still provide a good alternative to other available treatments. Further studies are needed to investigate the potential of combined ruby laser treatment for DSAP and to determine the appropriate laser pulse duration and fluence for effective treatment.