Port Wine Stain and Response to Argon Laser Therapy:

Prediction of Color Differences Between Lesional and Normal Skin

Abstract

Argon laser therapy is effective for some, but not all, cases of port wine stain (PWS). To determine the predictive role of PWS color, color differences between lesional and normal skin were measured, using a color and color difference meter. The response to the argon laser treatment was determined in 170 patients with PWS. Good to excellent results occurred in case of a skin eruption which was sharply bordered and intensively red, with remarkable telangiectasia. The mean value of the color difference was 3.95±1.24 NBS in 57 patients. Poor results occurred in a less red exanthema with lack of telangiectasia. The mean value of the color difference was 1.73±0.88 NBS in 46 patients. Fair results occurred in case of a skin lesion between the two, as described above. The mean value of the color difference was 3.18±1.13 NBS in 67 patients. There were statistically significant differences at the 0.05 level among the three groups. In conclusion, using a color and color difference meter, the therapeutic response of PWS to argon laser treatment can be predicted prior to the treatment.