The comparison of the efficacy and safety of Q-switched potassium titanyl phosphate laser and long-pulsed neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser in the treatment of erythematotelangiectatic and papulopustular rosacea

• Published in: Türk dermatoloji dergisi 2018-06, Vol.12 (2), p.90-95
• Main Authors: Üstüner,Pelin, Balevi,Ali, Özdemir,Mustafa
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aluminum; Lasers; Medical equipment; Patient satisfaction; Potassium; Rosacea; Tıp
• ISSN: 1307-7635; 1308-5255
• DOI: 10.4274/tdd.3535

Objective: The best laser for patients with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is still a controversial topic. The efficacy and safety of Q-switched potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) and long-pulsed neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (lpNd:YAG) lasers were compared in the treatment of erythematotelangiectatic and papulopustular rosacea. Methods: Thirty patients aged 16-70 years who had multiple telangiectasias on both sides of the face and a diagnosis of stage 1-2 rosacea were included in a split-face, double-blinded, randomized clinical trial. Lasers were applied to two different sides of the face for four sessions at one-month intervals. The number of papules and pustules were investigated before treatment and at each visit. The erythematotelangiectatic rosacea severity scores, thickness of telangiectasias, clinician’s assessment of treatment response, patient satisfaction, and adverse effects were examined. Results: In the third and fourth months, the number of papules on the side treated with lpNd:YAG laser was significantly lower than the other side. In the fourth month, the mild or severe erythematotelangiectatic rosacea score rate was significantly lower on the side treated with lpNd:YAG laser. The clinician’s assessment was similar for both treatments. Conclusion: We recommend lpNd:YAG laser for erythema and Q-switched KTP laser for thin and superficial telangiectasias for the highest treatment efficacy.