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CO2 laser resurfacing and photocarcinogenesis: an experimental study
Lene Hedelund1, Merete Haedersdal, Henrik Egekvist
1Department of Dermatology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark. LH20@bbh.hosp.dk
Lasers in Surgery and Medicine
|July 28, 2004
Summary
Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser treatment does not cause cancer on its own. This study found CO2 laser treatment does not affect the development of ultraviolet (UV)-induced skin cancer.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Laser Physics
Background:
- Carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers are widely used in dermatological procedures.
- Concerns exist regarding the potential carcinogenic effects of lasers and their interaction with UV radiation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the carcinogenic potential of CO2 laser treatment.
- To determine if CO2 laser treatment influences UV-induced carcinogenesis.
Main Methods:
- 211 hairless mice were treated with a CO2 laser and simulated solar irradiations.
- Irradiations were administered pre-operatively or pre- and post-operatively.
- Skin tumors were monitored for 12 months.
Main Results:
- No tumors developed in mice treated solely with CO2 laser or exposed to UV only before laser treatment.
- Tumors developed in mice exposed to UV irradiation both before and after CO2 laser treatment, similar to UV-only controls.
- No significant difference in tumor development time was observed between groups.
Conclusions:
- CO2 laser treatment exhibits no inherent carcinogenic potential.
- CO2 laser treatment does not alter the course of UV-induced carcinogenesis.