Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
Spring 2014
Keywords
Excimer Laser; Morphea
Abstract
Background and Objectives:
Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma, is a sclerotic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the skin but has the potential to involve fascia, muscle and bones. With no cure for this disfiguring disease, therapeutic modalities including topical regiments, immunosuppressive agents, antimalarial medications, and phototherapy are used to manage the symptoms and progression. While many treatments options are available, they vary in efficacy.
Methods:
We present a case of a 28-year-old woman with active sclerotic plaques distributed along her neck, left flank. She had previously failed therapy with topical steroids and methotrexate, and was started on hydroxychloroquine 400 mg daily and calcipotriene/betamethasone ointment 0.005% BID. Since she was still having active lesions, she was referred to our clinic for consultation regarding excimer laser therapy. We used excimer laser therapy at 260 mJ twice a week, supplementing the hydroxychloroquine and calcipotriene/betamethasone ointment.
Results and Conclusion:
Within two months of therapy, no new lesions had occurred and current lesions showed no active inflammation. To our knowledge, this is the first description of excimer laser used for the treatment of morphea.
Recommended Citation
Hajjar, Samah Hassan; Beggs, Sarah; and Ehrlich, Alison, "Use of excimer laser for morphea" (2014). GW Research Days 2014. Paper 11.
https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/researchdays_2014/11
Open Access
1
Comments
Presented at: GW Research Days 2014.