Treatment of Verruca Vulgaris with Long Pulsed Nd:YAG Laser 1064 nm In Iraqi Patients

Abstract

Background: Verruca vulgaris is a common dermatological problem. The conventional treatments for verruca vulgaris are usually invasive, low efficacy, and need a long recovery period.

Aims of study: evaluate the effectiveness and the safety of long pulsed Nd:YAG laser in the treatment of verruca vulgaris.

Methodology: In this therapeutic clinical trial, thirty five patients with a total of 105 lesions were enrolled. Each patient was eligible for up to three treatment sessions at 2 weeks interval with long pulsed Nd:YAG laser. All verrucae were evaluated before every session and three months after the last treatment session. The response classifies as complete (when there is complete disappearance of lesions), no response when there was no change, and partial (when the reduction in verruca size 50% or greater).

Results: complete response was seen in 96 (91.43%), partial response in 4 (3.81%), and no response in 5 (4.76%) verruca. The cumulative clearance rate after first, second, third treatment sessions was 60%, 80%, and 91.43 % respectively. At end of follow up, relapse rate was 2.08%. Side effects were generally mild and did not prevent normal activity.

Conclusion: long pulsed Nd:YAG laser (1064nm) appears to be effective and safe for treatment of verruca vulgaris.

Recommendations:

1. Increase the sample size.

2. Make comparative study with other traditional treatment modality for verruca vulgaris.