Successful carbon dioxide laser therapy for refractory anogenital lichen sclerosus.
BACKGROUND
Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory dermatitis that often occurs in the anogenital area and presents a therapeutic challenge. Traditional medical management includes potent topical corticosteroids and is marked by variable results.


OBJECTIVE
The objective was to describe the successful use of carbon dioxide laser ablation therapy in two women with refractory anogenital lichen sclerosus.


METHODS
A case is reported and the literature is reviewed.


RESULTS
Two women with medically recalcitrant anogenital lichen sclerosus were successfully treated with the carbon dioxide laser. Both patients tolerated the procedure well and had excellent surgical outcomes.


CONCLUSIONS
Lichen sclerosus recalcitrant to medical therapy presents a therapeutic challenge This may be successfully treated with the carbon dioxide laser with excellent surgical results and minimal risk.
Section of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, The Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia 30912, USA.
Christopher M
CM
Peterson
Joshua E
JE
Lane
John L
JL
Ratz
D001004:Anus Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D018459:Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D014845:Vulvar Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*
D002245:Carbon Dioxide