A prospective study comparing ultrapulse CO2 laser and trichloroacetic acid in treatment of Xanthelasma palpebrarum.

BACKGROUND: Xanthelasma Palpebrarum is a type of xanthoma which presents as cosmetic concern.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of 30% TCA and UpCO2 laser in XP.

METHODS AND MATERIALS: Fifty patients with XP were categorized clinically into three groups. Patients in each group were alternately allocated to 30% TCA (Group A) and laser (Group B). TCA was applied weekly (maximum: 12 sessions), and laser sessions were given monthly (maximum: three sessions). The primary outcome measures were total patients cured, the number of sessions, and mean VAS at the end of treatment. The secondary outcome measures were total duration of treatment, side effects, and recurrence in follow-up (6 months) (P < 0.05 significant).

RESULTS: In Group A, 14 of 25 and in Group B, 25 of 25 patients achieved complete cure (P < 0.05). The mean VAS was lower for Group A (patient: 4.56 vs. 5.36; physician: 4.64 vs. 5.44) [P < 0.05] with significant difference only for group III patients. Mean number of sessions was less with laser group (1.56 vs. 9.74), except in group I. There was no significant difference in pigmentary changes and recurrence.

CONCLUSION: For clinically mild lesions, both TCA and laser are good options, but laser is a better option for severe lesions. Recurrence is a concern with both modalities.