A giant melanocytic nevus treated with combined use of normal mode ruby laser and Q-switched alexandrite laser

Abstract

We report a combination procedure that can improve the effectiveness of laser removal of giant congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN). A 2-year-old girl with a giant CMN was seen in our outpatient clinic. Histological findings showed a compound nevus without any evidence of malignancy or dysplastic changes. The patient was treated with the normal mode ruby laser and Q-switched alexandrite laser. The lesion was significantly improved in color and cosmetic appearance. Partial hypopigmentation and texture changes were observed. Histological findings showed a marked decrease in the number of junctional melanocytes and the nests in the papillary and reticular dermis. The combined laser treatment is an effective method for the treatment of giant CMN, but further study is warranted to follow-up questions of recurrence and malignant change.