Vesiculobullous eruption from intense pulsed light treatment.
BACKGROUND
Intense pulsed light (IPL) systems emit non-coherent, polychromatic light and are increasingly used for various dermatologic indications. Although generally regarded as safe therapy, IPL is not without risk.


OBJECTIVE
We report a 21-year-old woman who experienced a severe blistering eruption after IPL treatment by a nonphysician.


METHODS
Case report.


RESULTS
The patient reported a 10-year history of persistent redness on her medial and lateral cheeks. She had tried no previous oral or topical therapies. She was diagnosed with rosacea and was treated with IPL. The following day, intense vesiculation and bullae formation occurred, progressing to dramatic facial edema by day 3 and eschar formation by day 5. Ten weeks later, prominent erythema with papularity remained on both cheeks and the lateral neck, with textural change and reticulated dyschromia. She continued to recover 20 weeks after treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
This case most likely represents high-fluence photothermal tissue injury induced by the laser-like qualities of the IPL source, with resulting acantholysis leading to formation of vesicobullae in the context of an uncertain primary diagnosis. This case highlights the potential hazards of IPL therapy and raises questions regarding appropriate use of this medical technology.
Sperber
Brian R
BR
Department of Dermatology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA.
Walling
Hobart W
HW
Arpey
Christopher J
CJ
Whitaker
Duane C
DC
D000488:Allied Health Personnel; D018450:Disease Progression; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010789:Phototherapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012393:Rosacea / Q000601:surgery*; D012872:Skin Diseases, Vesiculobullous / Q000209:etiology*