Naevus of Ota treatment with cryotherapy

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Naevus of Ota is seen infrequently among Iranian individuals with a Mediterranean complexion. OBJECTIVE: Treatment of Ota's naevus by closed contact CO 2 cryotherapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Four patients, three female and one male, were enrolled in this study. A closed contact CO 2 cryogun with a round, flat-topped cryoprobe was preferred because of its easy control and monitoring. A small area was tested first to assure the patients of the procedure's effect and its lack of complications. At 6-8 weeks later when the patients returned with a hypopigmented patch the lesions were totally frozen or were sectioned first for the cases with extensive diameters. The procedure was repeated every 6–8 weeks until there was an acceptable colour match of the lesion with normal skin. RESULTS: Oedema and wheal developed soon after freezing. Oedema may lead to crust formation and less likely to bullae within 24–48 h, with the crust peeling 5–7 days later, leaving an erythematous area gradually followed by a hypopigmented patch. Three to five and occasionally more sessions may be required for full and acceptable colour matching. No permanentcomplications were seen. CONCLUSION: Cryotherapy is a cheap and safe method that can be used as an alternative method for the treatment of naevus of Ota.