New targeted therapy to treat facial lesions

Research conducted by Roy G. Geronemus, M.D. and Yoon-Soo Cindy Bae-Harboe, M.D., was selected as Editor's Choice for the November 2013 issue of Lasers in Surgery and Medicine (LSM).

The manuscript titled "Targeted Topical and Combination Laser Surgery for the Treatment of Angiofibromas" was published in LSM, the official journal of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Inc. (ASLMS).

Using a variety of laser technologies and a new topical medicine, the authors described an innovative way to treat angiofibromas, characteristically seen in patients with Tuberous Sclerosis. Angiofibromas are persistent facial lesions that are difficult to treat as they recur. The application of a new targeted therapy, topical sirolimus, works synergistically with laser surgery and prolongs the effects of treatment.

"We described our method of combining these treatments to manage the angiofibromas of Tuberous Sclerosis. We hope to continue to pioneer innovative approaches to treating difficult skin problems by incorporating novel medical therapies with laser technology," said Dr. Geronemus.

Dr. Geronemus directs the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, where they are investigating a diverse array of skin concerns including, but not limited to: scars, stretch marks, volume loss, alternatives to neuromodulators for rhytides, fat reduction, tattoo removal, port wine stains, dyspigmentation, alopecia, hair removal, and more. He is Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the New York University Medical Center.

The Editor-in-Chief of LSM, J. Stuart Nelson, M.D., Ph.D. commented on the study, "The angiofibromas of Tuberous Sclerosis (TS) is a frustrating, persistent, recurrent skin problem with very limited treatment options. In the manuscript, the authors explore the potential benefits of merging novel topical agents with laser surgery to increase penetration of targeted therapy into the site of pathology. This report compels investigators to study this procedure in larger randomized clinical trials so that patients suffering from the stigma of these lesions can be effectively treated."