Pulsed dye laser treatment of multiple eccrine hidrocystomas: a novel approach.

BACKGROUND Multiple eccrine hidrocystomas are benign cystic lesions that pose a significant treatment challenge due to their facial location and tendency to scar after traditional surgical and other destructive modalities. METHODS A 585nm pulsed dye laser was used at fluences ranging 7.0 J/cm2 to 7.5 J/cm2 at 6- to 8-week intervals to treat multiple lesions on the face of a 54-year-old man. RESULTS Near complete resolution of all papules was seen after four laser sessions. There was no evidence of lesional recurrence 18 months after the final treatment. CONCLUSION The 585nm pulsed dye laser can effectively treat eccrine hidrocystomas. The mechanism of action whereby this vascular-specific laser produced improvement is unclear.