Treatment of an Amalgam Tattoo with a Q-Switched Alexandrite (755 nm) Laser

Treatment of an Amalgam Tattoo with a Q-Switched Alexandrite (755 nm) Laser
December 2002
To cite this article: Geeta Shah MD, Tina S. Alster MD (2002)
Treatment of an Amalgam Tattoo with a Q-Switched Alexandrite (755 nm) Laser
Dermatologic Surgery 28 (12), 1180Ò1181.
doi:10.1046/j.1524-4725.2002.02121.x
Blackwell Synergy

Geeta Shah, MD and Tina S. Alster, MD
Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery, Washington, DC

Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Tina Alster, 2311 M Street NW, Suite 200, Washington, D.C. 20037 or e-mail: talster@skinlaser.com.
G. SHAH, MD AND T.S. ALSTER, MD HAVE INDICATED NO SIGNIFICANT INTEREST WITH COMMERCIAL SUPPORTERS.

Abstract
background.Amalgam tattoos result from deposition of metallic particles (eg, silver, mercury, copper, zinc, and tin) into the oral mucosa. Their clinical and histologic appearance is similar to that of decorative tatoos.

objective.To describe the successful use of a Q-switched alexandrite laser for removal of an amalgam tattoo.

materials and methods.An amalgam tattoo on the buccal mucosa and gingiva was treated with a QS 755nm alexandrite laser. Three treatments were delivered at 8-week time intervals (average fluence = 6.8 J/cm2).

results.Significant lightening of the tattoo was achieved after each of the three treatments without adverse sequelae.

conclusion.Q-switched alexandrite laser irradiation can safely and effectively eradicate amalgam tattoos.

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