The Clinical Superiority of Continuous Exposure versus Short-Pulsed Carbon Dioxide Laser Exposures for the Treatment of Pearly Penile Papules

Abstract

Treatment of pearly penile papules was performed both with a conventional continuous-wave (CW) and a newer generation high energy pulsed carbon dioxide laser. When compared to the short pulsed laser, the CW laser, using relatively low power densities, provided superior hemostasis and improved visualization of the operative field. Despite the increase in thermal injury, wound healing was not compromised. The results of this case report support the CO2 laser in CW mode as the infrared laser treatment of choice for exophytic lesions with increased vascularity.

Fractional Resurfacing for the Treatment of Pearly Penile Papules

“…15,16 Specifically, the continuous-wave CO 2 laser has demonstrated superior results to the pulsed CO 2 laser. 17 Complications limiting the use of this treatment, however, include an increased risk of scarring and infections as raw skin is produced after laser ablation. Patients will also be required to perform soaks and dressing changes at home, making the postoperative regimen cumbersome.…”

Treatment of Pearly Penile Papules with CO2Laser

“…Pearly penile papules are benign angiofibromas 5 . They are typically flesh‐colored to pearly, 1–2 mm smooth or dome‐shaped papules located circumferentially around the corona and sulcus of the glans penis 1,2 . Histologically these are characterized as angiofibromas 5 .…”

“…The psychological aspect and cosmetic concerns of pearly penile papules prompts a certain portion of the population to seek therapeutic cure. Although multiple therapeutic modalities have been utilized, use of CO 2 laser has proven to be most effective 1,2,7 . Our patient was extensively counseled regarding his postoperative expectations, especially since he may be predisposed to postinflammatory hyper‐ or hypopigmentation.…”

“…PEARLY PENILE papules are benign flesh‐colored to pearly papules that occur circumferentially about the corona and sulcus of the glans penis 1,2 . These occur most frequently in the second and third decades and there is no racial predilection; however, these do occur more commonly in uncircumcised men 1,2 . Although this condition is benign and typically asymptomatic, cosmetic and psychological concerns often prompt patients to seek treatment.…”

“…Although this condition is benign and typically asymptomatic, cosmetic and psychological concerns often prompt patients to seek treatment. Numerous therapeutic modalities, including circumcision, podophyllin, electrodessication and curettage, cryotherapy, and CO 2 laser have been utilized 1–4 . Use of CO 2 laser has demonstrated the most effective results thus far.…”