Efficacy of Q-switched Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Laser in Xanthelasma Palpebrarum

Xanthelasma palpebrarum (XP) is a common disorder symmetrically involving the eyelids, caused by the deposition of esterified cholesterol in the dermis. In this series of cases, we observed the efficacy of Q-switched Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd-YAG) LASER in xanthelasma. We used a Q-switched Nd-YAG LASER at a fluence of 2 J/cm 2 and a spot size of 2 mm till bleeding spots were seen. The results were evaluated after 4 weeks independently by two blinded dermatologists, and the decrease in size was graded from 0 to 5. A patient’s assessment score was also added (0–5). The series included 13 patients with 38 lesions, and at the end of 4 weeks, improvement was seen in all patients. Six patients showed 50%–75% improvement, and seven patients showed 25%–50% improvement. A few cases showed mild erythema, which resolved on its own on the same day. Thus, Nd-YAG LASER is a valid treatment option for XP with good efficacy and minimal side effects.