Fractional Ablative Er:Yag Laser Therapy in a Patient With Chronic Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa: A Case Report and Review of Literature Publisher



Mozafarpoor S¹ ; Asilian A¹ ; Jafari MA² ; Goodarzi A²
Source: Iranian Journal of Dermatology Published:2021

Abstract

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is an autosomal recessive disorder that affects type VII collagen, one of the main components of the basement membrane. Patients present with non-healing chronic wounds in the body, extremities, and mucosal areas. There are many suggestive medical and surgical treatments, but most are ineffective. In this case, we discuss a new laser-assisted surgical protocol for these types of patients. A 54-year-old male patient was suffering from RDEB with large, excruciating, non-healing wounds on his extremities dating ten months, with no reasonable improvement, despite receiving intensive wound care. After ruling out other diagnoses (particularly malignancies), treatment was performed with a fractional Er:YAG laser for a single session. After four weeks of follow-up, the patient showed significant improvement, with no considerable complications reported. Fractional ablative Er:YAG laser could be an effective treatment option in RDEB patients. Clinical trials are required with long-term follow-ups for this novel treatment approach. © 2021, Iranian Society of Dermatology. All rights reserved.