CASE REPORT
Treatment of Vulvar Fordyce Angiokeratoma with Nd:YAG 1,064 nm Laser
This is a case report performed with the ETHEREA-MX® Platform and LongPulse® handpiece.
Dr. Claudia Sathler
Vascular Surgeon and Angiologist
Fordyce angiokeratoma is a benign vascular lesion that affects the external genitalia of both males and females. Its prevalence is unknown and there appears to be no hereditary component. The condition is caused by the dilation of superficial dermal blood vessels, often associated with capillary fragility, increased local venous pressure, or vascular changes related to aging. Repetitive trauma, chronic inflammation, and genetic predisposition may also contribute to the development of these lesions.
Several methods have been used for treatment, including surgery, electrocoagulation, chemical cauterization, sclerotherapy, and laser therapy. The long-pulse Nd:YAG 1,064 nm laser is considered one of the most effective and safest options for treating Fordyce angiokeratoma. Its mechanism of action is based on selective photothermolysis, promoting coagulation and subsequent regression of the lesion with minimal damage to adjacent structures.
The LongPulse® handpiece, compatible with the ETHEREA-MX® and ZYE® platforms, was designed for applications that require precision and thermal control, such as the treatment of vascular lesions.
In this case, three sessions were performed under topical anesthesia (lidocaine 7% plus tetracaine 7%) with intervals of 8 to 12 weeks. The last two sessions were performed with shorter duration and lower irradiation using the same parameters described. Complete remission of the lesions and full pain relief were achieved.