Successful Treatment of Granuloma Annulare with Thin-Layered Co2 Laser Ablation

Abstract

Two clinical cases of successful thin-layered CO2 laser ablation of localized form of granuloma annulare, are presented. Granuloma annulare is a rare dermatosis whose etiology is still unclear. Relation to various systemic diseases is assumed. Non-aesthetic lesions create discomfort, and may impede affected individuals’ social confidence, physical, and psycho-social functioning. In most cases lesions regress spontaneously, and therefore therapeutic minimalism is to be applied. Therapeutic modalities include laser therapy. Reports in literature of GA treatment with PDL, Fractional Thermolysis, as well as excimer laser indicate attempts at treatment of GA are being made not knowing the mechanisms behind etiology of GA. Presented bellow successfully treated cases with thin-layered CO2 laser ablation demonstrate treatment of GA with thin-layered laser ablation as therapeutically effective. The procedure is bloodless, relatively painless and completely aseptic, no postoperative pain. Possible impetiginization is easily avoided. Keywords: Granuloma Annulare; CO2 Laser; Thin-Layered Laser Ablation Abbreviations (CO2 laser) Carbon Dioxide Laser (GA) Granuloma Annulare (PDL) Pulsed Dye Laser (FT) Fractional Thermolysis