Treatment of lymphangioma circumscriptum with combined radiofrequency current and 900 nm diode laser

BACKGROUND Laser treatment of lymphangioma circumscriptum is a major challenge because of the persistent nature of the disease and the large variations in lesion size, depth, and anatomic location. OBJECTIVE To determine the safety and effectiveness of electro-optical synergy, a new technology that combines a 900 nm diode laser with radiofrequency current, for the treatment of lymphangioma circumscriptum. METHODS Six patients with Fitzpatrick skin types II to IV were treated for lymphangioma circumscriptum with 1 to 3 sessions of simultaneous radiofrequency energy (60-80 J/cm(3)) and optical diode laser energy (fluence 90-100 J/cm(2)). Lesion clearance was evaluated by three specialists on the basis of digital photographs taken before the first treatment and 1 and 2 months after the last treatment. RESULTS Results were rated as "excellent" in four patients and "good" in two patients. Transient swelling, erythema, and pain were present in all patients, and ulcers and scarring in two patients. CONCLUSION The combination of laser light and radiofrequency energy is effective and relatively safe for the treatment of lymphangioma circumscriptum. It provides additional heating of the blood vesicles without increasing the laser intensity and allows the clinician to treat the clear lymphatic component, which lacks a specific optical chromophore. Side effects are tolerable.