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A Triple Laser Combination Treatment for Facial Angiofibromata Management in Tuberous Sclerosis and Literature Review
F Neamonitou1, K K Neamonitos2, S Stavrianos1
1Department of Plastic Surgery, General Anticancer Oncological Hospital of Athens 'Saint Savvas', Athens, Greece.
Abstract:
Angiofibromas are a common facial manifestation of tuberous sclerosis (TS). However, current treatments have proven ineffective due to high recurrence rates and noncompliance. To address this issue, we developed a new triple laser therapy protocol for more effective management of angiofibromas. We conducted tests to validate its efficacy. This is a prospective study of 10 patients with TS (4 women and 6 men, mean age 26.3 years [15-37 years]) with angiofibromata who received triple sequential laser therapy at our private dermatological clinic conducted from January 2000 to December 2022. We evaluated the outcome with the Facial Angiofibromata Severity Index (FASI) via clinical photography (0, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years), and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). All patients had a successful recovery without any complications. Among these 10 patients, 4 experienced localized recurrences at their 6-month follow-up. These recurrences were treated with a second single carbon dioxide laser session. After 2 years of follow-up, we observed no recurring facial cutaneous manifestations. Furthermore, all patients experienced a decrease in their FASI score after treatment. According to the Visual Analogue Scale, patients reported 95% satisfaction, and DLQI indicated only a minor impact on their everyday lives. We believe that this protocol of three-step laser treatment is effective, safe, and compliable for patients with facial angiofibromata, providing a satisfactory outcome adaptable to the daily dermatological and plastic surgery practice.
Insights
A new triple laser therapy protocol effectively manages facial angiofibromas in tuberous sclerosis patients, showing high satisfaction and minimal recurrence after two years. This treatment offers a safe and compliant option for dermatological practice.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Laser Therapy
- Tuberous Sclerosis
Background:
- Facial angiofibromas are a common symptom of tuberous sclerosis (TS).
- Existing treatments for angiofibromas have limited efficacy due to high recurrence rates and poor patient compliance.
- There is a need for improved therapeutic strategies for managing facial angiofibromas in TS patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel triple sequential laser therapy protocol for treating facial angiofibromas in patients with tuberous sclerosis.
- To assess patient outcomes using the Facial Angiofibromata Severity Index (FASI) and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI).
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 10 patients (4 female, 6 male; mean age 26.3 years) with TS and facial angiofibromas.
- Patients received triple sequential laser therapy between January 2000 and December 2022.
- Outcomes were assessed via clinical photography (FASI scores) at baseline, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years, along with DLQI assessments.
Main Results:
- All 10 patients achieved successful recovery without complications.
- Four patients experienced localized recurrences at 6 months, successfully treated with a single carbon dioxide laser session.
- After 2 years, no recurring facial cutaneous manifestations were observed, with all patients showing decreased FASI scores.
- Patient satisfaction was high (95% on Visual Analogue Scale), and DLQI indicated minimal impact on daily life.
Conclusions:
- The triple sequential laser therapy protocol is an effective, safe, and compliant treatment for facial angiofibromas associated with tuberous sclerosis.
- This approach provides satisfactory outcomes and is adaptable for routine dermatological and plastic surgery practices.
- The study demonstrates long-term efficacy in preventing recurrence and improving quality of life for TS patients with angiofibromas.
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