[KTP laser coagulation for xanthelasma palpebrarum].

BACKGROUND: Xanthelasma palpebrarum is a benign skin disorder of unknown etiology appearing as one or multiple yellowish plaques around the eyelids. Hyperlipidemia, thyroid dysfunction, and diabetes mellitus are possible pathogenetic triggers. Removal of xanthelasma is desired for aesthetic reasons. While there are many treatment options, search continue for newer methods with less scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: We employed for the first time KTP laser (532 nm) for the treatment of 14 patients with xanthelasma palpebrarum on 33 eyelids.

RESULTS: More than 70% of the patients tolerated KTP laser irradiation without any analgesia. 85.7% showed respectable reduction of xanthelasma palpebrarum after one to three treatment sessions without side effects.

CONCLUSIONS: KTP laser irradiation represents a minimally invasive, safe and effective treatment option for the reduction of xanthelasma palpebrarum without undesired side effects.