Pulsed Dye Laser in the Treatment of Nail Psoriasis

BACKGROUND The treatment options for nail psoriasis have been limited, and the management of nail psoriasis has been challenging for physicians. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effect of pulsed dye laser (PDL) in the treatment of nail psoriasis. METHODS Psoriatic nails of five patients were treated using PDL (595 nm) once monthly for 3 months. The pulse duration was 1.5 ms, the beam diameter was 7 mm, and the laser energy was 8.0 to 10.0 J/cm2. Clinical efficacy was statistically evaluated according to Nail Psoriasis Severity Index (NAPSI) score differences before and after the treatment. RESULTS Statistical analysis of NAPSI scores before and after treatment showed significant difference (p <.05, paired t-test). The nail bed lesions, particularly onycholysis and subungual hyperkeratosis, responded best to the treatment. LIMITATIONS Limitations include the lack of blinding and comparison and the small number of patients. CONCLUSION PDL might be an alternative treatment for nail psoriasis. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.