Intense pulsed light versus pulsed dye laser in the treatment of nail psoriasis: Intra-patient left to right comparative controlled study

Abstract

Background Until now, the management of psoriatic nails has not been satisfactory. Pulsed dye laser (PDL) as well as intense pulsed light (IPL) have been evaluated separately for the management of psoriatic nails and proved to be effective. Aim This study aimed to measure and compare the usefulness as well as the safety of intense pulsed light versus pulsed dye laser for the management of psoriatic nails. Methods The psoriatic fingernails of 20 patients were managed using intense pulsed light on one hand and pulsed dye laser on the other. Two to three psoriatic nails were left without treatment as controls. The therapeutic sessions were conducted monthly for a period of 6 months. Evaluation of the clinical outcomes was assessed by a blinded dermatologist depending on the total, nail bed, nail matrix, modified and target NAPSI scores. Patient global assessment, in addition to Nail Psoriasis Quality of Life (NPQL10), was performed to assess the response to the therapy. Results A significant reduction in the total, target and modified NAPSI scores from baseline to the end of the study was detected, but no significant differences were detected between the two treatments. The responses of the nail matrix and bed lesions to both modalities were nearly the same. All patients stated that the two devices were efficient and improved their quality of life. The intense pulsed light treatment was more painful. Complete clearance of nail lesions was not obtained. Limitations Lack of long-term follow-up of cases and preset laser parameters were the major limitations of this study. Conclusion Intense pulsed light, like pulsed dye laser, is safe and efficient in treating nail psoriasis; however, the former is more painful. Dermoscopy had an additive function in analysing the response of nail psoriasis to therapy.