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


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.


CONCLUSIONS
The technique of electrosurgery, pulsed-dye laser treatment, and AFR represents a new and safe therapeutic option for treating facial angiofibromas associated with TS.
Weiss
Elliot T
ET
Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, New York, New York 10016, USA. eweiss@laserskinsurgery.com
Geronemus
Roy G
RG
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D018322:Angiofibroma / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery*; D005153:Facial Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D054025:Lasers, Dye / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery*; D014402:Tuberous Sclerosis / Q000150:complications*