Evaluation of long-term efficacy, safety, and effect on life quality of pulsed dye laser in rosacea patients

Abstract

Background: Rosacea is a chronic disease affecting the patients' life quality negatively. Although various laser systems are used in the rosacea treatment, studies reporting efficacy and long-term continuity of benefit of laser therapies are scarce. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, continuity of benefit, and effect on life quality of pulsed dye laser (PDL) in the rosacea patients. Methods: Fourteen rosacea patients treated with PDL were enrolled in the study. The number of treatment sessions were varied from one to four. The efficacy was evaluated by the physicians' clinical assessment (PCA), patients' self-assessment (PSA), and erythema and telengiectasia grading scores. Additionally, the patients were asked about the continuity of the benefit and improvement in their life qualities after the treatment. Results: Both the erythema and telangiectasia scores were significantly improved after the treatment (p < 0.001). According to PCA, nine patients had a clinical improvement of >50%. According to PSA, 11 patients had good/excellent improvement. Moderate/significant benefit of treatment continued in 12 patients at the follow-up period (mean 21.64 +/- 14.25 months). The life quality scores were significantly improved. No serious side effects were observed. Conclusion: PDL has high and long-term efficacy in the treatment of rosacea with a good safety profile.