Lasers for Becker's nevus

Lasers Med Sci. 2019 Aug;34(6):1071-1079. doi: 10.1007/s10103-019-02734-3. Epub 2019 Feb 14.

Abstract

Becker's nevus is a common pigmented dermatosis, usually featured by ipsilateral pigmented patch with hypertrichosis. Becker's nevus is often treated with various types of lasers although other regimens are available. However, clinical outcomes appear inconsistent among studies. To summarize the clinical outcomes of Becker's nevus treated with lasers via literature review. A variety of lasers had been used alone or in combination to treat Becker's nevus. Laser wavelengths used for Becker's nevus ranged from 504 to 10,600 nm, while the number of treatment varied from 1 to 12 sessions. The clinical outcomes were mixed although combination of lasers with different wavelengths appeared to achieve a better efficacy. Adverse effects were usually mild to moderate erythema. While lasers are relatively safe, their efficacy for Becker's nevus is moderate. It seems that combination therapy could improve the outcome. However, trials in larger group of patients are required to validate the efficacy of each type of lasers for Becker's nevus.

Keywords: Becker’s nevus; Hypertrichosis; Laser; Pigmentation.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy*
  • Lasers*
  • Nevus / surgery*
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery*

Supplementary concepts

  • Becker Nevus Syndrome