Efficacy of Ultrapulse Carbon Dioxide Laser Ablation Versus 30% Trichloroacetic Acid in Xanthelasma Palpebrarum - A Randomised Controlled Trial

Context: Xanthelasma palpebrarum (XP) is the most common cutaneous xanthoma that develops around the eyes. A number of treatment modalities have been tried for its removal, but none are truly satisfactory. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is commonly used in Indian setting as it is easily available and cost-effective whereas carbon dioxide (CO2) laser has been tried increasingly due to its favorable cosmetic outcome. Aims: This study aims to compare the efficacy of ultrapulse CO2 laser ablation with 30% TCA in the treatment of XP. Setting and Design: Prospective, interventional, randomized study at a Dermatology Centre of a Tertiary Level Hospital from January 2017 to June 2018. Methods: Seventy-four patients with 100 lesions of XP were divided into two groups of flat and elevated lesions. Each group was further randomly divided into two subgroups and administered CO2 laser once a month and 30% TCA once in 2 weeks respectively for 3 months. Patients were clinically assessed at baseline and then at monthly intervals using visual analog scale (VAS), patient satisfaction score (PSS), and standardized photographs. The follow-up was done at the end of 3 and 6 months. Statistical Analysis and Results: Mean PSS and VAS score of TCA and laser in flat and elevated lesions were compared using independent group Student's t-test. Response to laser in elevated lesions was found to be statistically better whereas in flat lesions the response to TCA and laser were similar. Recurrence was 17% and 6% at 3 months' follow-up and 24% and 11% at 6 months' follow-up in TCA and laser groups, respectively. Conclusions: The end results of ultrapulse CO2 laser and 30% TCA are comparable in flat lesions of XP. In elevated lesions, laser has better efficacy, requires fewer sittings with lesser chance of recurrence.