[The pulsed dye laser--possibilities and limits]

Cutaneous lesions of the nose

Skin diseases on the nose are seen in a variety of medical disciplines. Dermatologists, otorhinolaryngologists, general practitioners and general plastic and dermatologic surgeons are regularly consulted regarding cutaneous lesions on the nose. This article is the second part of a review series dealing with cutaneous lesions on the head and face, which are frequently seen in daily practice by a dermatologic surgeon. In this review, we focus on those skin diseases on the nose where surgery or laser therapy is considered a possible treatment option or that can be surgically evaluated.

[Psoriasis vulgaris. An indication for lasers?]

Treatment of psoriasis is often complicated and remains a challenge. Along with the many new immunomodulatory approaches, various laser systems have been employed in an attempt to treat chronic plaque psoriasis. These include CO(2), Er:YAG, pulsed dye, 1302 nm Nd:YAG and excimer lasers. After reviewing and critically evaluating the literature, we conclude that the 308 nm excimer laser has proven its efficacy, not only in comparison with other laser systems, but also when compared with conventional 311 nm narrow-band UVB treatment. It is an efficient and promising therapeutic option for treating different forms of psoriasis.