Multiple trichoepitheliomas successfully treated with a high-energy, pulsed carbon dioxide laser.
BACKGROUND
Multiple trichoepitheliomas are transmitted in an autosomal dominant fashion and can be clinically disfiguring. As with other dermal tumors, destructive techniques such as cryotherapy, electrodesiccation, and radiation therapy can improve the cosmetic appearance, but each of these treatments carries a significant risk of side effects and recurrence.


OBJECTIVE
We describe a patient with a severe case of recurrent multiple trichoepitheliomas following excision, cryotherapy, and electrodesiccation.


RESULTS
Treatment with a high-energy, pulsed carbon dioxide laser produced an excellent clinical response with no recurrence noted in the treated area for 12 months.


CONCLUSIONS
Laser vaporization of trichoepitheliomas using a pulsed carbon dioxide delivery system may provide superior clinical results without scanning and evidence of regrowth.
Rosenbach
A
A
Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery, Washington, DC 20037, USA.
Alster
T S
TS
D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D017679:Cryotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D004598:Electrosurgery / Q000009:adverse effects; D005153:Facial Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000601:surgery*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005799:Genes, Dominant; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000601:surgery; D018295:Neoplasms, Basal Cell / Q000235:genetics / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000601:surgery*; D012307:Risk Factors; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000601:surgery*
D002245:Carbon Dioxide