Treatment of xanthelasma palpebrarum by 1064-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser: a study of 11 cases.

Background: Xanthelasma palpebrarum (xanthelasma) is a common disease involving the eyelids. It consists of yellowish plaques of esterified cholesterol situated in the middle and superficial layers of the dermis. Many techniques, including laser treatments, have been proposed to destroy these lesions. A preliminary study demonstrated the efficacy of 1064-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser in treating xanthelasma.

Objectives: To present the results of a prospective study using 1064-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser to treat xanthelasma.

Methods: Thirty-eight lesions in 11 patients were treated.

Results: The results observed after a single treatment by Q-switched Nd:YAG laser were scored as good or excellent in eight patients, i.e. for 26 of 38 lesions.

Conclusions: The treatment of xanthelasma by 1064-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is a valuable treatment option to eliminate lesions, with rapid and good quality healing. The absence of any associated skin destruction allows treatment to be repeated when necessary.