Resurfacing of facial angiofibromas in tuberous sclerosis patients using CO2 laser with flashscanner.

BACKGROUND: Angiofibromas are a common presentation of tuberous sclerosis. They cause considerable cosmetic and hygienic morbidity for patients. Treatments of angiofibromas have included curettage, cryosurgery, chemical peel, dermabrasion, shave excision, and 13-cis retinoic acid. Results from these modalities in many cases were not satisfactory from a cosmetic standpoint. Copper vapor, argon, pulsed dye, and CO2 lasers have been used with success in isolated cases.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of CO2 laser resurfacing with flashscanner in the treatment of facial angiofibromas.

METHODS: Two patients with angiofibromas on the face were treated with a CO2 laser with flashscanner. The cheek and nose were treated in one patient, and entire face was done in the other.

RESULTS: Both patients showed remarkable cosmetic improvements without scarring. Mild hyperpigmentation was found in both patients, which disappeared in 1 month with the application of topical agents. Facial erythema persisted about 2 months in both patients.

CONCLUSION: A CO2 laser equipped with flashscanner causes less residual thermal damage than conventional CO2 lasers and enables controlled depth vaporization for more precise and regular removal of angiofibromas. In whole-face resurfacing, more cosmetically acceptable results are possible because localized treatment leaves marginal prominences. Laser resurfacing is an effective alternative in the treatment of multiple protuberant angiofibromas even though we cannot permanently clear these lesions due to their nature.