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Q-Switched Alexandrite Laser-induced Chrysiasis.
Philip R Cohen1, E Victor Ross2
1Department of Dermatology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California.
The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology
|October 3, 2015
Summary
Laser-induced chrysiasis, a blue-gray skin pigmentation, can occur in patients treated with Q-switched lasers, even decades after gold therapy. Long-pulsed lasers may help resolve this condition.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Medical Aesthetics
- Laser Therapy
Background:
- Chrysiasis is a rare blue-gray skin pigmentation from prolonged gold therapy.
- Laser-induced chrysiasis is an uncommon side effect following Q-switched laser treatment in patients with a history of gold therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize patients who develop laser-induced chrysiasis.
- To review the literature on laser-induced chrysiasis.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 60-year-old woman with laser-induced chrysiasis.
- Literature review using PubMed with keywords: chrysiasis, gold, laser-induced.
Main Results:
- Five Caucasian arthritis patients (4 women, 1 man) developed laser-induced chrysiasis.
- Patients received >8g of gold therapy over 3-13 years, with discontinuation up to 26 years prior to laser treatment.
- Dyschromia resolved with sequential laser treatments, including long-pulsed and fractional lasers.
Conclusions:
- Q-switched lasers can induce chrysiasis in patients with current or past gold treatment, even decades later.
- Inquire about gold treatment history before Q-switched laser procedures, especially in older arthritis patients.
- Long-pulsed laser treatment is a viable option for chrysiasis.
