Topical imiquimod in conjunction with Nd:YAG laser for tattoo removal.

Unlabelled: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of tattoo removal using topical imiquimod 5% cream in conjunction with the 1,064-nm Nd:YAG laser. This procedure for tattoo removal will be compared to laser treatment alone, which is the standard for cosmetic removal of tattoos. Previous studies have linked partial tattoo removal to imiquimod application in a guinea pig model.

Comparison of the effectiveness of the pulsed dye laser 585 nm versus 595 nm in the treatment of new surgical scars.

Unlabelled: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of the pulsed-dye laser (PDL) at a wavelength of 585 nm with those at 595 nm in the treatment of post-surgical scars, starting on the day of suture removal. The study was a prospective, non-randomized, double-blind, controlled, clinical trial, set in an outpatient clinic. Fifteen outpatients with 21 post-operative scars at least 3 cm long were recruited, and 14 patients with 19 scars completed the study.

Nonablative lasers.

The trend toward minimally invasive rejuvenation techniques has led to the widespread use of nonablative lasers. Nonablative lasers can be classified in two groups based on their wavelengths: lasers emitting light in the visible range, and those emitting in the infrared range. In this review, different laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) systems are presented and critically discussed along with findings of the studies in the literature.

Lasers for scars: a review.

Many articles have been published on improving the appearance of scars; however, there are no definitive management protocols. Our objective was to review the literature on laser therapy for various types of scars. There are multiple laser modalities that have been studied with certain features that may be indicated for specific scar types.

A primer of Mohs micrographic surgery: uncommon indications.

Mohs micrographic surgery has been used for the treatment of tumors other than basal and squamous cell carcinomas. Parameters to be considered when deciding on a treatment include location, size, growth pattern, and recurrence rates. It is important to consider that sometimes the high-risk nature of the tumor is more significant than the need for tissue sparing.

A primer of Mohs micrographic surgery: common indications.

Mohs micrographic surgery is a highly effective technique for the removal of some skin cancers. The technique is founded on the idea of excision with minimal margins (sparing normal tissue) and immediate histologic examination of horizontal frozen sections of the specimen while the patient waits. By doing this, a Mohs surgeon is able to examine the margins.

The Miami Special: a simple tool for quality section mounting in Mohs surgery.

High quality frozen sections are fundamental in Mohs surgery, and one of the main elements in tissue processing is the mounting of the specimen. The Miami Special has been used for this purpose at the University of Miami for over 30 years. Since 1989 the Miami Special has languished in the literature among a growing list of mounting instruments.

Imiquimod for the treatment of Bowen's disease and invasive squamous cell carcinoma.

Topical imiquimod is an immune response modifier FDA approved for the treatment of anogenital warts. Recent studies have reported its effectiveness in the treatment of some types of basal cell carcinomas. There have also been some case reports and case series reporting success treating of squamous cell carcinoma in situ with imiquimod.