Fractional photothermolysis for the treatment of telangiectatic matting: A case report

Background: Recent reports have demonstrated clinical and histologic evidence of the potential benefit of fractional photothermolysis (1550 nm Fraxel SR™ laser) for the treatment of dermal vascular lesions. This report evaluated the potential efficacy of fractional photothermolysis for the treatment of matted telangiectasias. Methods: A 62-year-old female, Fitzpatrick skin type III, with matted telangiectasias on her right medial thigh underwent five successive treatments at monthly intervals with the 1550 nm Fraxel SR laser. Digital photographs were taken prior to each treatment and at 6 months after the last treatment. Clinical assessments were performed by a non-treating physician. Results: Clinical assessment 6 months after the last treatment with the Fraxel SR laser revealed marked improvement in the clinical appearance of the matted telangiectasias. The patient's degree of satisfaction paralleled the physician's assessment of improvement. Side effects were limited to mild pain during treatment and mild, transient post-treatment erythema and edema. Conclusion: Fractional photothermolysis is a potentially effective modality for the treatment of matted telangiectasias and warrants further studies. No long-term adverse events were noted and the safety profile appears to be fairly broad.