Cold-Induced Urticaria After Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing of the Face

Purpose

The purpose of this report was to discuss an uncommon and hithertoo unreported side effect of carbon dioxide laser resurfacing seen in a single patient. When exposed to cold exterior temperatures or after having had a cold drink, the patient displayed rippling bumps on her cheeks, so called urticaria, for short periods of time, often less than a minute. These sypmtoms and signs were unresponsive to common medications and were persistent.

Results

The study points to this previously unkown side effect as a cause for caution in the use of carbon dioxide lasers. The study points out that use of these lasers is still relatively recent and therefore all potential side effects are unkown.

More Information

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