Case Study of Onychomycosis Patients Treated with 1,064-nm Nd:YAG Laser

The objectives of this study were to assess the therapeutic response of patients with onychomycosis to 1,064-nm Nd:YAG laser treatment, the clinical evaluation meth od available for this therapy, and the possible side effects of this treatment. Twenty patients with onychomycosis underwent laser therapy. A total of 34 nails with onychomycosis were assessed according to the Onychomycosis Severity Index (OSI). This index generates scores that classify onychomycosi s as mild, moderate, or severe. The OSI was determined before treatment and after a mean follow-up period of 8 months. The comparison between the initial and the final OSI for all 34 nails treated with laser therapy showed a significant difference; however, a low association was shown between these variables. A general reduction in the area of involvement and in the OSI numerical scores was observed. These data show a trend toward improvement in onychomycosis treated with 1,064-nm Nd:YAG laser. The OSI allowed an adequate clinical assessment of the response to laser therapy. Laser treatment di d not cause marked discomfort in most patients, indicating that laser is a well-tolerated procedure.Case Rep Dermatol 2018;10:216 –225
Source: Case Reports in Dermatology - Category: Dermatology Source Type: research