Initial experience with the argon laser in cutaneous vascular lesions.

An 18-month clinical study on the effects of argon laser in cutaneous vascular disorders in 41 patients carried out at the National University Hospital is discussed. The results confirmed the excellent response that can be achieved in lesions such as capillary hemangiomas, granuloma pyogenicum, cherry angiomas, telangiectasias and spider angiomas, but not in venous flare of the lower limbs. We are cautiously optimistic about its role in portwine stains; results are still being assessed. Complication rates so far have been relatively low with scarring observed in one patient.