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Reactive lentiginous hyperpigmentation after cryosurgery for lentigo maligna
K Böhler-Sommeregger1, S Schuller-Petrovic, R Knobler
1Department of Dermatology II, University of Vienna, Austria.
Background:
Twenty patients treated for lentigo maligna of the face with cryosurgery developed benign lentiginous hyperpigmentation mimicking a recurrence.
Objective:
When cryosurgery is used in the treatment of lentigo maligna, it is important to know whether repigmentation of the scar represents true recurrence or a benign process.
Methods:
Twenty patients were treated with cryosurgery for lentigo maligna of the face. Within a follow-up period of 7 to 80 months, frequent clinical observations were made.
Results:
Lentiginous hyperpigmentation developed within the treatment area in eight patients. Histologic investigation revealed recurrence of lentigo maligna in three and benign hyperpigmentation in five.
Conclusion:
Genetic factors and UV exposure after cryosurgery may favor the development of benign lentiginous hyperpigmentation. Because recurrence of lentigo maligna must be considered, histologic evaluation of repigmentation is mandatory.