Exogenous ochronosis – successful outcome after treatment with Q-switched Nd:YAG laser

Abstract

Background: Exogenous ochronosis (EO), a disfiguring cutaneous complication of topical hydroquinone use, is difficult to treat. There are few reports of successful outcomes following treatment with different modalities. Objective: We assessed the results of treatment of EO with the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. Material and methods: Patients with histologically-confirmed EO were treated with the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. Results and conclusion: Q-switched Nd:YAG laser treatment appears to be effective in reducing the dyschromia of EO.

Key Words::

• exogenous ochronosis
• facial hyperpigmentation
• Hori's nevus
• hydroquinone
• melasma
• Q-switched Nd:YAG laser

Declaration of interest: The authors report no declarations of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.