Argon laser photoablation of superficial conjunctival nevus: results of a 3-year study.

PURPOSE

To evaluate and report the results of a 3-year study investigating argon laser photoablation of superficial conjunctival nevus.

DESIGN

Retrospective, interventional case series.

METHODS

The medical charts of patients referred to our clinic for the removal of a conjunctival nevus were reviewed. Argon laser photoablation of superficial conjunctival nevi was performed for 230 patients during the period from March 2006 to February 2009. The clinical course, complications, and recurrence rates were evaluated.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 71.29 ± 19.51 months (range, 36-100 months). The horizontal and vertical diameters of conjunctival nevi were 4.53 ± 1.85 mm and 3.41 ± 1.62 mm, respectively. Most nevi were faintly pigmented and located on the nasal bulbar conjunctiva. The argon laser spot size was 200 μm; its duration was 0.1 second; and the power was 321.50 ± 9.23 mW. One session was required to completely remove the nevus in 212 eyes (81%). The total number of laser spots that were required to remove 1 nevus was 107.83 ± 33.68 (range, 53-172) for cases in which the horizontal and vertical diameters were <4 mm. In all cases, the laser procedure resulted in complete removal of the conjunctival nevus. There were no significant complications, such as infection, corneal damage, or permanent injection.

CONCLUSIONS

Argon laser photoablation could be a safe and effective treatment for benign superficial conjunctival pigmentation. This method is especially helpful for large conjunctival nevi, for which surgical excision would be impossible.