Q-switched 1064 nm Nd:YAG Laser Therapy in Onychomycosis

Background: Recently, laser therapy in onychomycosis has become an alternative treatment because it is a minimally invasive procedure and positive results can be obtained in a few sessions.Our aim in our study was to evaluate the results of Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser in the treatment of patients followed up with the diagnosis of onychomycosis. Materials and Methods:Twenty-six patients with a diagnosis of onychomycosis were included in the study.Q-switched Nd:YAG laser treatment was applied for a total of three sessions every two weeks.The patients were re-evaluated one month after the last session. Results:The most common type of onychomycosis was the distal lateral (73.1%) type.The average of the onychomycosis score index values, which were measured to evaluate the clinical response, decreased significantly after the treatment (p=0.001).Conclusion: Q-Switched Nd:YAG (1064 nm) laser is a safe method in onychomycosis patients.It can be recommended especially in patients who do not want to use oral antifungals or have contraindications.Longer sessions may be required for effectiveness.