Absorption of green light by hemoglobin is the basis for treatment of hypervascular birthmarks and varicose veins with argon, KTP or dye lasers. Visible and near-infrared lasers are also used for the removal of hair, tattoo's and pigmented lesions. This group of diseases includes both phototoxic and photoallergic effects. Neonatal jaundice Neonatal jaundice is treated with phototherapy. Neonatal infants are susceptible to central nervous system damage by bilirubin due to an increased permeability of the blood-brain barrier.
Blue light enhances the excretion of bilirubin through photodegradation.
Ophthalmic lasers These lasers allow non-invasive treatment of diseases of the eye as well as vision correction. Vision correction utilizes an ultraviolet excimer laser to reshape the cornea. Near infrared YAG lasers or argon lasers are used to treat glaucoma by relieving intra-ocular pressure. Argon lasers are also used to treat abnormal retinal blood vessels that are common in diabetics. Macular degeneration Macular degeneration can also be treated with lasers.