New technique using combined pulsed dye laser and fractional resurfacing for treating facial angiofibromas in tuberous sclerosis

Lasers Surg Med. 2010 Jul;42(5):357-60. doi: 10.1002/lsm.20939.

Abstract

Background and objective: Tuberous sclerosis (TS) is a well-described genetic disorder that is classically associated with up to hundreds of facial angiofibromas. Due to the progressive nature of the skin lesions and the early clinical presentation, a safe and effective technique for treating these disfiguring skin lesions is needed.

Study design/patients and methods: We report a combinatorial technique for treating the angiofibromas of TS. We present a case series of three TS patients treated with this technique combining pinpoint electrosurgery, pulsed-dye laser treatment, and ablative fractional resurfacing (AFR).

Results: In all presented cases, improvement in the number and appearance of facial angiofibromas and erythema is noted. No scarring or adverse events were reported.

Conclusion: The technique of electrosurgery, pulsed-dye laser treatment, and AFR represents a new and safe therapeutic option for treating facial angiofibromas associated with TS.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Angiofibroma / etiology*
  • Angiofibroma / surgery*
  • Facial Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Facial Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy / methods*
  • Lasers, Dye / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Skin Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Tuberous Sclerosis / complications*