Sommer, 1998  Title: Ruby laser treatment for hirsutism:
clinical response and patient tolerance.
Authors: Sommer S, Render C, Burd R, Sheehan-Dare
R
Journal: Br J Dermatol 1998 Jun;138(6):1009-14
PMID: 9747363, UI: 98419500
Affiliated institution: Leeds Dermatology
Laser Centre, Department of Dermatology, Leeds General Infirmary,
U.K.
We report the results of a study of the ruby laser
in normal mode for treatment of hirsutism in 43 patients with
skin types I-IV. A pulse width of 950 microseconds, a 4 mm spot
and a fluence sufficient to produce minimal whitening of the epidermis
were used (mean 48 J/cm2). In each patient, one site was treated
once only, and a second site received four treatments at monthly
intervals. After a single treatment, hair counts had reduced to
a mean of 46% (median 67, reduced to 26) of the pretreatment values
at 1 month, but increased to 80% (median 42) at 3 months and were
66% (median 37) at 6 months. One month after three treatments,
hair counts had reduced to a mean of 29% (median 60, reduced to
15) of pretreatment values, and 3 months after four treatments
at the same site, counts had increased to 44% (median 21). Patient
tolerance of the treatment was good and higher fluences tended
to be tolerated at consecutive visits. The first treatment was
followed by mild, short-lived erythema and swelling in 60% (25
of 42) patients. Fourteen per cent (six of 42) experienced mild
blistering and 33% (14 of 42) crusting. More severe reactions
were seen infrequently. These results indicate that normal mode
ruby laser treatment is well tolerated. Sustained reduction in
hair counts can be achieved for at least 6 months, and multiple
treatments produce greater clinical effects.
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