A new method to treat onychopapilloma with pulsed dye laser irradiation: a 13-case series report

Abstract

Purpose: Onychopapilloma is a rare benign nail tumor affecting the distal matrix and the nail bed. Currently, the only available treatment is surgical resection, which has a recurrence rate of 20% and may lead to various complications. Here we report a new method to treat onychopapilloma with pulsed dye laser (PDL). Materials and methods: We retrospectively analyzed 13 cases and evaluated disease classification, dermoscopic examination, laser treatment parameters, photographs before and after treatment, and treatment outcome. Results: The site distribution of onychopapilloma was consistent with previous reports. PDL treatment was performed with 595 nm laser, with 1.5 ms pulse duration, spot diameter 3–5 mm, and 11.5–13.5 J/cm2 fluence. Irradiation covered the telangiectatic area up to the edge of the nail folds, with the terminal response of purpura occurrence. The overall effective rate was 77%; the effective rates for erythronychia, leukonychia, and melanonychia were 88%, 67%, and 50%, respectively. Conclusions: PDL treatment for onychopapilloma provides an alternative to traditional surgery with comparable effectiveness but much less risk for complications.

Keywords

• onychopapilloma
• pulsed dye laser
• erythronychia
• nonsurgical treatment
• onychosis
• nail tumor