Squamous Cell Carcinoma Developing after CO2 Laser Resurfacing. Issue 2 (March 2013) - Nicoli, Fabio
Background: Skin resurfacing with the carbon dioxide (CO2 ) laser is currently a popular means of improving rhytides and scars and has been reported useful in the treatment for photodamaged skin, including precancerous and benign skin lesions, as well as superficial benign pigmented lesions. Methods: We describe a 68-year-old man who developed rapid squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) on the resurfaced areas 3 weeks following CO2 laser resurfacing. Results: Rapid occurrence of SCC should be considered a rare complication, and we recommend carefully considering CO2 laser resurfacing after excision of an SCC and surveying any cancer recurrences. Conclusions: We report a rare complication of CO2 laser resurfacing. This report suggests that additional work in this area is warranted.