Microscopically proven cure of actinic cheilitis by CO2 laser

Actinic cheilitis is a premalignant condition of the lip frequently seen in individuals with chronic sun exposure. Various surgical and ablative therapies have been employed, but microscopic outcome has not been well documented. In this study CO2 laser ablation was performed on 16 patients with actinic cheilitis that involved 50% or greater of the lower lip. Pre- and post-treatment biopsies were performed to assess results of therapy. After treatment all 16 patients showed microscopic clearing of atypical cells and disorderly maturation characteristic of actinic cheilitis. One patient had clinical recurrence at 14 months, which was retreated with laser.