Dermabrasion is an effective treatment for acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules

BACKGROUND. Dermal pigmented lesion, or acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules, is a common entity in Asian skin. There are no established data supporting the safety, effectiveness, and cosmesis of its treatment. The lesions do not respond to bleaching or peeling agents. OBJECTIVE. To search for a means of treatment that is cost effective, safe, and yields a good cosmetic result. If possible, these requirement should be accomplished within one session. METHODS. Three hundred and twenty patients who presented themselves with acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules were included in the study. Area dermabrasion using a hand engine with a coarse diamond fraise was performed in every case. RESULTS. Three hundred and twenty patients (97%) achieved 100% clearance of the pigment. In the remaining 10 patients (3%) there was 5% residual pigment. The wound healed with excellent cosmesis, and without changing skirt texture. CONCLUSION. Dermabrasion is an excellent modality for the treatment of acquired nevus of Ota-like macules.