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Nodular amyloidosis treated with a pulsed dye laser
1Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery, Washington, DC, USA.
Background:
Nodular amyloidosis is a rare form of primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis which is characterized by single or multiple nodules located on the extremities, trunk, genitalia, or face.
Objective:
To determine the clinical and histologic response of nodular amyloidosis to pulsed dye laser treatment.
Methods:
Biopsy-proven amyloid nodules were treated with a 585-nm pulsed dye laser (average fluence 5.25 J/cm2; 10 mm spot) at 6- to 8-week time intervals. Clinical and histologic examination of laser-irradiated nodules were performed before and 6 weeks after the final laser treatment.
Results:
Clinical improvement in the color, size, and pliability of nodules was noted and maintained for 6 months. Histologic examination revealed decreased inflammation and improvement in dermal collagen after laser irradiation.
Conclusions:
Since amyloid fibrils may be formed in association with dermatan sulfate-an essential matrix component in collagen fiber formation, it is postulated that the improvement seen in amyloid nodules after pulsed dye laser treatment may be attributed to a mechanism similar to that seen with hypertrophic scars.