Spontaneous regression of subcutaneous in-transit malignant melanoma deposits of the lower leg after treatment with the carbon dioxide laser

Application of CO2 laser evaporation in locally advanced melanoma

Aim

This study aims to investigate the role of CO₂ laser evaporation in the treatment of melanoma patients with satellite or in-transit metastases.

Materials & methods

Patients who underwent CO₂ laser evaporation were retrospectively included between November 2002 and August 2018. The Sharplan 40C CO₂ laser was used with a high pulse wave mode. Data concerning patient and tumor characteristics, CO₂ laser evaporation and subsequent therapies were collected.

Results

A total of 26 patients were included. Median duration of local control was 5.5 months. The median number of lesions evaporated per treatment was three (1-16); patients received a median of three (1-19) treatments.

Conclusion

In a selected group of melanoma patients with satellite or in-transit metastases, CO₂ laser evaporation should be considered as treatment for local control.