Management of Facial Angiofibromas in Tuberous Sclerosis: Use of the Carbon Dioxide Laser

Abstract

Facial angiofibromas are estimated to occur in 90% of patients with tuberous sclerosis and can cause considerable cosmetic disfigurement, emotional distress, obstruction of vision, and hemorrhage when abraded. Postoperative wound management associated with skin grafting and dermabrasion is often difficult because patients are mentally retarded and noncooperative. Three patients with extensive facial angiofibromas were treated successfully with the carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser, with follow-up period ranging from 8 to 48 months. Uncomplicated wound healing occurred in each patient with minimal recurrence of lesions. Ablation with the CO₂ laser is our treatment of choice for angiofibromas associated with tuberous sclerosis.