Laser Test Spots: A Scoping Review.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Laser Therapy
• Medical Research Methodology

Background:

• Laser test spots are recommended for evaluating clinical outcomes and adverse effects of laser treatments.
• Current literature lacks detailed descriptions of how laser operators utilize test spots.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and describe the methodology and objectives of laser test spot usage in published dermatologic studies.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of current practices and inform clinical decision-making.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review was performed following PRISMA-Scoping guidelines.
• Included indexed studies involving laser test spots on human subjects for dermatologic conditions with subsequent clinical reassessment.

Main Results:

• 103 studies comprising 959 test spots were analyzed from 5,261 identified publications.
• Test spots were predominantly applied to lesional skin (89.3%) to assess both efficacy and safety (76.9%).
• Varied methodologies were observed, with most test spots using multiple parameters at a single wavelength, frequently adjusting fluence.

Conclusions:

• Laser test spot methodology is diverse, serving dual purposes of assessing efficacy and safety.
• The findings highlight the need for standardized approaches and offer clinical considerations for laser operators.