BACKGROUND
Despite the proven effectiveness of the 595-nm pulsed dye laser (PDL) in treating superficial infantile hemangiomas, many physicians are reluctant to treat such lesions involving the eyelid.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the safety and efficacy of the 595-nm PDL for the treatment of superficial infantile hemangiomas of the eyelid.
MATERIALS & METHODS
Records were reviewed for patients with superficial infantile hemangiomas of the eyelid treated with 595-nm PDL. Pre- and post-treatment photographs were compared. Reviewers rated the degree of improvement of the hemangioma as excellent (76–100%), good (51–75%), moderate (26–50%), or poor (0–25%) and indicated whether the hemangioma was 100% clear. Side effects of scarring, atrophy, hyperpigmentation, and hypopigmentation were assessed.
RESULTS
Twenty-two patients met the study criteria. Eight (36.4%) demonstrated complete clearance of their hemangioma, 17 (77.3%) received an improvement rating of excellent, and five (22.7%) received a rating of good. No scarring, atrophy, or hypopigmentation was noted. Two patients (9.1%) were noted to have hyperpigmentation in the treated area.
CONCLUSION
Early treatment with the 595-nm PDL can safely and effectively diminish proliferative growth and hasten resolution of superficial infantile hemangiomas of the eyelid.
