Long-term efficacy of carbon dioxide laser resurfacing for facial actinic keratosis.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy and long-term effectiveness of carbon dioxide laser resurfacing in the treatment of patients with facial actinic keratosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective chart analysis was conducted of 31 patients who underwent full face carbon dioxide laser resurfacing for facial actinic keratosis from July 1998 to November 2002. RESULTS: Of 31 patients, 18 (58%) were free of lesions at their longest visit. The average actinic keratosis free period, excluding 2 deceased patients, was 27.4 months. CONCLUSION: Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing is an effective tool in the management of patients with facial actinic keratosis.