Pulsed dye laser treatment of warts.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the safety and efficacy of the flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye laser for the treatment of uncomplicated and recalcitrant warts.

DESIGN

Observational study.

PATIENTS

A total of 142 patients with 703 recalcitrant and 25 previously untreated warts consecutively referred to two tertiary care laser centers from July 1993 through January 1994.

INTERVENTION

Photocoagulation with the flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye laser.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Complete resolution of treated warts after a follow-up ranging from 3 to 9 months.

RESULTS

The overall response rates were 99% for body, limb, and anogenital warts; 95% for hand warts; 84% for plantar warts; and 83% for periungual warts. Side effects were limited and infrequent.

CONCLUSION

Pulsed dye laser therapy is a highly effective and safe method used to selectively destroy warts without damaging the surrounding skin.