Work

Second-Degree Burns Following Intense Pulsed Light Therapy in a Patient With Fitzpatrick Skin Type IV: A Case Report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy is widely used in cosmetic dermatology for the treatment of unwanted hair, vascular lesions, pigmentary disorders, and acne-related sequelae. We present a case of a male in his late 20s with Fitzpatrick skin type IV who sustained second-degree burns following IPL therapy for post-acne erythema performed by a non-medical operator. The patient developed erythema, blisters, and desquamation. He was treated with oral medications (acyclovir and cephalexin), corticosteroid ointment, and medicated powder dressings. Subsequent treatment included light-emitting diode (LED) therapy, picosecond laser sessions, and topical depigmenting agents. Significant improvement was noted after four months with minimal residual hyperpigmentation. This case highlights the risks associated with IPL treatment administered by untrained personnel and underscores the importance of professional oversight and patient-specific parameter adjustments.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.90119

Authors: Jisu Kim, Matthew Cartier, Monica Morcos

Institutions: Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Hospital Zambrano Hellion, Hospital Universitario Dr José Eleuterio Gonzalez, Tecnológico de Monterrey, University of Pittsburgh

Language: English

Topic: Dermatologic Treatments and Research

Subfield: Dermatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4413417676