Cutaneous CO2 laser resurfacing is a relatively safe procedure with a low complication profile. Proper laser treatment protocol and postoperative management is important in reducing side effects and complications.

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Two dimensions of perceived control (primary vs. secondary and central vs. consequence-related) were examined in a sample of 104 HIV-positive men. Two hypotheses regarding the use of primary control (acting to achieve specific outcomes) and secondary control (acceptance) were supported: The use of both primary and secondary control was associated with better adjustment. Secondary control served a protective role at lower levels of primary control, but was not associated with adjustment at higher levels of primary control. The 2 hypotheses regarding central control (over the infection) and consequence-related control (over consequences of the infection) were also supported. Perceptions of consequence-related control were higher than perceptions of control over HIV and more strongly associated with low depression.

Hypertrophic burn scars are notoriously difficult to treat because of their extensive tissue involvement and tendency to worsen with hypertrophy and contracture formation. Various therapies have been advocated in the past, including surgical excision and grafting, dermabrasion, and corticosteroids, with distinct cosmetic limitations. The 585-nm pulsed dye laser has been shown previously to be effective in the treatment of a variety of traumatic and surgical scars with improvement in scar texture, color, and pliability with minimal side effects. Sixteen patients with 40 hypertrophic burn scars resulting from chemical peels, carbon dioxide laser procedures, and accidental thermal injury were treated with a 585-nm pulsed dye laser. Sequential photographic and clinical assessments were recorded in all patients. Histologic evaluations of skin punch biopsies before and after laser irradiation were performed when possible. Symptomatic improvement of scars was reported after one treatment. Decreased scar erythema with improved texture and pliability was observed after an average of 2.5 treatments. No correlation was found between scar duration, location, or etiology and response to treatment. Normal number of dermal fibroblasts with decreased sclerosis was observed on histologic examination of laser-irradiated scars. The 585-nm pulsed dye laser irradiation of hypertrophic burn scars can effectively improve scar pliability and texture and decrease erythema and associated symptoms yielding cosmetically and functionally acceptable clinical results.

Techniques involving the use of selective Q-switched Nd:YAG and long-pulsed alexandrite and ruby laser systems provide a significant delay in hair growth. With further technologic advances and understanding of proper treatment parameters and intervals, it is expected that permanent hair removal may eventually be possible.