Within-subject, Investigator Initiated, Single-blind, Single-centre, Randomized Clinical Trial Investigating the Efficacy of Fractional Er:YAG Laser in Lupus Erythematosus Scars
Within-subject, Investigator Initiated, Single-blind, Single-centre, Randomized Clinical Trial Investigating the Efficacy of Fractional Er:YAG Laser in Lupus Erythematosus Scars
Cutaneous Lupus erythematosus (CLE) is a chronic autoimmune connective tissue disease with a prevalence of 14.6 - 73.2/100,000, predominantly in women in mid adulthood. Cutaneous lesions occur in about 75-80% of patients with systemic lupus erythematodes.These lesions unfortunately and invariably lead to significant scarring and postinflammatory hypo- and hyperpigmentation.
Several studies have reported that laser treatments in patients with CLE have a positive effect and safety. However, only few case reports exist about the effect of ablative lasers such as Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Erbium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Er:YAG) lasers in CLE scarring.
Although no study shows a flare-up of CLE after laser treatment of the scars, many physicians are afraid of treating these often stigmatizing scars. Considering the huge psychological impact of facial scaring on quality of life, it is essential to explore and assess the value of already well-established treatment options for the management of scars also in patients with cutaneous lupus erythematodes.
Hereby the study seeks the subjective and objective improvement of the CLE-scars after treatment with fractional Er:YAG laser compared to control (untreated) areas.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria: