Combined Treatment with Electrocauterization, Carbon Dioxide Laser, and Microneedle Fractional Radiofrequency for Facial Angiofibromas in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex: A Case Report and Literature Review

ABSTRACT: Tuberous sclerosis complex is a type of genetic multisystem disease that causes hamartomas in various organs. Facial angiofibromas commonly occur in 80% of patients and are prominently distributed over the cheek, chin, and nasolabial folds with severe disfigurement and emotional distress. Recently, photoelectric devices have been identified for the treatment of angiofibromas with great efficacy and fewer side effects. We report a case of a 42-year-old man with facial angiofibromas, who was treated with a combination of high-frequency electrocauterization, Ultrapulse CO2 laser, and microneedle fractional radiofrequency with 7 sessions and a 6-month follow-up. The patient showed great improvement in relation to the elevated lesions and nodules. A low recurrence rate was observed. This is the first study to investigate the efficacy of high-frequency electrocauterization and microneedle fractional radiofrequency in angiofibromas. It may provide an optimal approach for clinicians wherein a combined treatment of various lasers and electric devices is effective for complicated, protuberant, and firm angiofibromas of specific patients.