Use of CO2 Laser in the Treatment of Periungual Fibromas Associated With Tuberous Sclerosis

BACKGROUND: Tuberous sclerosis complex is an autosomal dominant disorder with variable clinical expression. In severe forms it may involve almost any organ system. Periungual fibromas are a common cutaneous manifestation and a frequent source of cosmetic and functional concern. Current treatment involves surgical excision of the lesions. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate laser vaporization of periungual fibromas and to compare results to the standard surgical treatment. METHODS: A patient with tuberous sclerosis and recurrent periungual fibromas was treated with a continuous wave CO2 laser in sequential focused and defocused modes at 10-15 W. RESULTS: Laser treatment required approximately 10 seconds per lesion and produced no intraoperative bleeding. The wounds healed well with good cosmetic results. CONCLUSION: Though similar to conventional surgery in terms of cosmetic satisfaction, CO2 laser presents a viable alternative to surgery through significantly reduced treatment time and amount of bleeding.