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Evaluation of Carbon Dioxide Laser in the Treatment of Epidermal Nevi
Yasmeen Jabeen Bhat1, Iffat Hassan1, Peerzada Sajad1
1Department of Dermatology, Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Leprosy, Government Medical College, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Background:
Epidermal naevi are benign hamartomatous growths of the skin which are generally asymptomatic with a benign course but are cosmetically disagreeable. Topical treatments such as steroids, calcipotriol, 5 fluorouracil, podophyllin, retinoids and cryotherapy are ineffective and surgical excision results in scar formation. Therapy is often challenging.
Aim Of The Study:
To study the response of carbon dioxide (CO2) laser in the management of epidermal naevi.
Subjects And Methods:
We conducted a study of CO2 laser treatment on 15 patients of epidermal naevi, eight with verrucous epidermal naevi and seven with sebaceous naevi. A thorough history and examination was done to rule out any epidermal naevus syndrome. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology. The number of treatment sessions varied from 1 to 8.
Results:
Response was excellent (>90% reduction in lesion size) in three patients, very good (>75% reduction) in five, good (>50% reduction in lesion size) in five and poor (<50% reduction in lesion size) in two patients. The side effects were hyperpigmentation and scarring. Long-term follow-up over a period of 10 months showed a recurrence rate of 20%.
Conclusion:
We conclude that CO2 laser treatment might be an effective option with long-term safety, minimal discomfort and rapid recovery.
