Pulsed dye laser treatment of telangiectasia after radiotherapy for carcinoma of the breast

Abstract

Background: Chronic radiodermatitis after radiotherapy for carcinoma of the breast is a common sequela of treatment and can be distressing for the patient. The skin is atrophic and shows prominent telangiectasia due to dilatation of a reduced or poorly supported skin vasculature. The pulsed dye laser (PDL) is an established treatment of cutaneous telangiectatic disorders including facial telangiectasia and spider naevi, and is safe and efficacious.

Objectives: To study the efficacy of the PDL in the treatment of postradiation telangiectasia of the breast or chest wall.

Methods: Prospective open study of the treatment of eight females with the Candela SPTL1B PDL. Subjective assessments of vessel clearance, adverse effects and patient questionnaires.

Results: All treated patients showed complete clearance of vessels. Two patients developed hypopigmentation. All patients reported a high degree of satisfaction with the treatment.

Conclusions: PDL therapy clears postirradiation telangiectasia of the breast and chest wall successfully with minimal adverse reactions, and can be recommended for patients distressed by this disorder.