Generalized essential telangiectasia successfully treated with high-energy, long-pulse, frequency-doubled Nd:YAG laser.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Generalized essential telangiectasia is a rare cutaneous disorder with limited therapeutic options.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the treatment with high-energy, high-frequency, long-pulse Nd:YAG laser in a patient with generalized essential telangiectasia.

METHODS:

A 62-year-old woman presented with a 20-year history of generalized essential telangiectasia. She had extensive telangiectasias primarily on the forearms and lower legs. The patient was treated with an Nd:YAG laser using a fluence of 20 J/cm2 and a pulse width of 20 msec. A sapphire water-cooled chill tip was used to cool the skin during laser therapy. The treatment was performed every 4 weeks over a period of 6 months.

RESULTS:

After six treatment sessions an almost complete clearance of telangiectatic lesions was observed. Side effects such as purpura, scarring, and pain did not occur. After a follow-up of 6 months, small telangiectatic lesions relapsed.

CONCLUSION:

Our results suggest that the Nd:YAG laser appears to be an effective and safe treatment option for generalized essential telangiectasia.

• Authors: T Gambichler, A Avermaete, M Wilmert, P Altmeyer, K Hoffmann
• Journal: Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.] (Dermatol Surg) Vol. 27 Issue 4 Pg. 355-7 (Apr 2001) ISSN: 1076-0512 [Print] United States
• PMID: 11298706 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Female
• Humans
• Laser Therapy
• Middle Aged
• Skin Diseases, Vascular (pathology, radiotherapy)
• Telangiectasis (pathology, radiotherapy)