EXCIMER LASER

Excimer light therapy utilizes a focused form of phototherapy, directing a precise wavelength (308 nm) of ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation through an excimer laser or lamp. This targeted approach proves beneficial in treating a range of skin disorders. Notably, it's a painless procedure without any recovery time needed.

What are the indications of Excimer laser treatment?

Excimer laser treatment finds application in:

• Vitiligo: for localized and few lesions.
• Psoriasis: for localized, palmoplantar, and scalp psoriasis.
• Alopecia areata
• Atopic eczema
• Cutaneous T cell lymphoma
• Localized scleroderma
• Granuloma annulare

How is Excimer laser used in dermatology treatments?

The handheld excimer device emits UV light directly onto localized vitiligo, psoriasis, or other skin lesions, delivering UVB radiation at 308 nm wavelength. Treatment involves irradiating the lesion for a specific duration. This method is particularly effective for small, localized lesions. Combining excimer laser with creams such as steroids and calcineurin inhibitors enhances clinical outcomes.

Patients typically undergo therapy 1-3 times weekly. The radiation dose is tailored based on skin type, lesion type, site, and treatment response. Positive results usually appear after 6-8 sessions, although the number of sessions needed varies by individual, with an average of 20-30 sessions required.

How is Excimer laser therapy better than Narrow band UVB therapy?

Excimer laser treatment offers safety benefits for patients with focal lesions as the surrounding skin remains unexposed to radiation.

• Varied parameters can be employed based on different treatment areas.
• It proves useful in treating challenging-to-reach areas like genitals and ears.
• Higher radiation doses can be delivered while reducing the cumulative dose, thereby shortening the treatment duration.
• It's more child-friendly compared to conventional phototherapy chambers.
• Excimer laser treatment typically yields a faster onset of treatment response.

What are the side effects of Excimer laser therapy?

Excimer laser therapy is usually well tolerated, characterized by minimal side effects, although rare adverse effects can occur in specific cases:

• Blistering and burning
• Hyperpigmentation
• Painful erythema
• Erosions
• Reactivation of Herpes Virus Infection
• Skin aging
• Slightly elevated risk of skin cancer