This month's edition of the Journal begins with four fascinating studies. The 1st two reports by Lee deal with a comparative study using low-fluence QS:YAG laser treatment with and without chemical peels for the treatment of melasma. Clearly, there is yet to be an ideal treatment for this troubling skin condition. The second study deals with the anti-inflammatory properties of nano-ecapsulated particles.
The next two studies deal with more traditional treatments. In the first, Li describes the use of a long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser in the treatment of port-wine stains, while Leciere takes another look and laser lipolysis of the neck region.
Subsequent to the 1st four reports, there are a variety of papers looking at various aspects of aesthetic medicine. Chung describes the use of a novel dual-pulsed 1064-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser to treat Riehl's melanosis, while Kalliopi describes repeated salicylic acid peels for the treatment of hyperplastic sebaceous glands.
IPL has been used to treat melasma, yet Gold describes melasma-like hyperpigmentation induced by intense-pulsed light treatment in Chinese patients. Seitz studies whether fractional CO2-lasers are as effective as Q-switched-ruby-lasers for the initial treatment of a traumatic tattoo. The results may be surprising.
Every so often, we like have to a well-written controversial review article in the Journal. The treatment of onychomycosis has been always have been difficult. Newer Nd:YAG lasers may offer an alternative approach. Mordon thoroughly evaluates different treatment options for this troubling condition.
Warts can be as difficult to treat as onychomycosis. Zeng describes successful treatment of recalcitrant warts in combination with a CO2 Laser and imiquimod 5% cream.
The last two studies look at the histological comparison of microscopic treatment zones induced by fractional lasers and radiofrequency as well as a look at the comparative efficacy of intense-pulsed light for rosacea-induced erythema.
There is something for everybody in this edition of the Journal.
Enjoy!