Case report: treating vitiligo with intense pulsed light

Abstract

Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is a common, longstanding inflammatory skin disorder with unclear origin. It is characterized by facial erythema involving mainly the central face (malar areas, the chin, nasal area and forehead region) with a range of clinical presentations varying from hyperactivity of the blood vessels to sebaceous gland hyperplasia. It can lead to considerable psychosocial impact. Intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment can potentially have dramatic results on severe erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea. This is a case report of treating severe erythematotelangiectatic rosacea with IPL treatment. Pre-treatment and post-treatment clinical photos were provided to show the effect of IPL therapy on severe erythematotelangiectatic rosacea. This article is a case report together with literature review to explore the view of researchers on erythematotelangiectatic rosacea with IPL. No comparison is made with other treatment modalities. Nevertheless, it provides an alternative treatment option for patients with severe erythematotelangiectatic rosacea. Our case report shows that IPL at certain energy levels using multiple filters, can effectively treat severe erythematotelangiectatic rosacea. We believe with more treatment sessions patient can enjoy longer and persistent result. IPL is an effective treatment for erythematotelangiectatic rosacea. However, more erythematotelangiectatic rosacea cases treating with IPL will be required to consolidate IPL as one of the best treatment options in treating erythematotelangiectatic rosacea. Potential complications with IPL include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, burn and pain.

Keywords

• intense pulsed light therapy; phototherapy; pigmentation disorders; rosacea