MULTIPLE TRICHOEPITHELIOMAS SUCCESSFULLY TREATED WITH A HIGH-ENERGY, PULSED CARBON-DIOXIDE LASER

BACKGROUND. Multiple trichoepitheliomas are transmitted in an autosoma l dominant fashion and can be clinically disfiguring. As with other de rmal tumors, destructive techniques such as cryotherapy, electrodesicc ation, and radiation therapy can improve the cosmetic appearance, but each of these treatments carries a significant risk of side effects an d recurrence. OBJECTIVE. We describe a patient with a severe case of r ecurrent multiple trichoepitheliomas following excision, cryotherapy, and electrodessication. RESULTS. Treatment with a high-energy, pulsed carbon dioxide laser produced an excellent clinical response with no r ecurrence noted in the treated area for 12 months. CONCLUSION. Laser v aporization of trichoepitheliomas using a pulsed carbon dioxide delive ry system may provide superior clinical results without scanning and e vidence of regrowth. (C) 1997 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc.