Treatment of sebaceous gland hyperplasia with the pulsed dye laser

Background and Objective: Sebaceous gland hyperplasia may be treated by cryotherapy, cauterization, topical chemicals, or excision. The major disadvantage of these therapeutic strategies is a considerable risk of postoperative scarring or dyspigmentation. The pulsed dye laser may be an effective and safe alternative treatment option. Study Design and Methods: Our report presents two patients with sebaceous gland hyperplasia who were treated with the pulsed dye-laser (585 nm, 6.5-8 J/cm(2), 300-450/mu sec). Results: After 2-3 treatment sessions, the lesions were completely gone. To date, no side effects have been observed. Conclusions: Based upon our experiences, we recommend the pulsed dye laser as a safe, fast, and minimal straining treatment alternative for hyperplasia of sebaceous glands. (C) 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.