The 308-nm excimer laser treatment does not increase the risk of skin cancer in patients with vitiligo: A population-based retrospective cohort study

Abstract

A 308-nm excimer laser (EL) has been widely used to treat patients with localized vitiligo. However, data are rare on the influence of EL treatment on the risks of skin cancer. To evaluate the skin cancer risks after long-term EL treatment, we performed a nationwide population-based retrospective cohort study using the Korean National Health Insurance Claims Database. A total of 5,052 patients with vitiligo were classified into three groups according to the EL treatment sessions between 2009 and 2016: no, 50-99, and 100 or more EL treatments after 2-year washout period (2007 and 2008). Using multivariable Cox proportional hazard models, we found that the risks of actinic keratosis, non-melanoma skin cancers, and melanoma did not significantly differ among the groups, respectively. In conclusion, EL treatment would not increase the risks of premalignant skin lesions and skin cancers in patients with vitiligo. Based on our results, EL is likely to be a safe treatment option for patients with localized vitiligo.