Evaluation of carbon dioxide laser in the treatment of epidermal nevi

Abstract

Background:Epidermal naevi are benign hamartomatous growths of the skin which are generally asymptomatic with a benign course but are cosmetically disagreeable. Topical treatments such as steroids, calcipotriol, 5 fluorouracil, podophyllin, retinoids and cryotherapy are ineffective and surgical excision results in scar formation. Therapy is often challenging.Aim of the Study:To study the response of carbon dioxide (CO2) laser in the management of epidermal naevi.Subjects and Methods:We conducted a study of CO2 laser treatment on 15 patients of epidermal naevi, eight with verrucous epidermal naevi and seven with sebaceous naevi. A thorough history and examination was done to rule out any epidermal naevus syndrome. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology. The number of treatment sessions varied from 1 to 8.Results:Response was excellent (>90% reduction in lesion size) in three patients, very good (>75% reduction) in five, good (>50% reduction in lesion size) in five and poor (<50% reduction in lesion size) in two patients. The side effects were hyperpigmentation and scarring. Long-term follow-up over a period of 10 months showed a recurrence rate of 20%.Conclusion:We conclude that CO2 laser treatment might be an effective option with long-term safety, minimal discomfort and rapid recovery.

Bilateral epidermal nevi in the external auditory canals treated with CO2 laser

“…Recent advances in laser technology have increased the ease, precision, and safety of such treatments . In a small case series, 13 of 15 patients undergoing CO 2 laser ablation of epidermal nevi had a favorable outcome with >50% reduction in size and only a 20% recurrence rate at 11 months . Follow‐up with our patient revealed that the epidermal nevus had not regrown 8 months postoperatively.…”

Treatment of the nevus sebaceous of Jadasson by a copper vapor laser

“…Риск рецидива и потенциальное развитие неоплазии связаны с неполной элиминацией НСЖ. Абляционные лазеры (Er:YAG и CO 2 ) используются для лечения НСЖ [19][20][21]. Применение углекислотного лазера для удаления НСЖ небольших размеров позволило добиться высокой эффективности, но после его использования у 26% пациентов отмечены побочные эффекты в виде гиперпигментации, у 13% остались атрофические рубцы [19].…”

An overview on the role of CO 2 laser in general dermatology

“…This type of lesion is often very difficult to treat as it can recur and/or have an unsatisfactory aesthetic result. The tissue can be removed or vaporized with the CO 2 laser and is therefore a good alternative for the removal of these benign lesions 15 …”

“…The tissue can be removed or vaporized with the CO 2 laser and is therefore a good alternative for the removal of these benign lesions. 15…”