Plasma Exeresis Treatment for Epidermoid Cysts: A Minimal Scarring Technique

BACKGROUND Epidermoid cysts are cutaneous benign tumors commonly seen in young or middle-aged adults. Plasma exeresis is an innovative technique for several skin conditions: it causes ionization of the atmospheric gas between the proximal tip of the device and the tissue to be treated, creating sublimation of the tissue. OBJECTIVE To remove the cyst with a novel technique that allows a good cosmetic result. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients with clinical diagnosis of at least one epidermal cyst, aged between 18 and 70 years were enrolled. A standardized procedure was used. After administration of topical and sometimes local anesthesia (for cysts bigger than 1 cm), a tiny hole was created with plasma exeresis. The content of the cyst was then extruded and Micro Hartman Alligator Ear Forceps pulled out the loosened capsule. RESULTS Twenty patients aged between 18 and 68 years were enrolled: 11 males (55%) and 9 females (45%). Twenty-eight cysts were successfully removed. The diameter ranged from 3 to 24 mm. No side effects were observed. The scar measured not more than 3 mm. CONCLUSION This study suggests that plasma exeresis could represent a good and safe option to remove noninfected cysts on cosmetic areas, although further study is required. Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Elena Rossi, Dermatology Unit, Surgical, Medical and Dental Department of Morphological Sciences related to Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via del Pozzo 71, 41124 Modena, Italy, or e-mail: dr.elenarossi@gmail.com The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. Written informed consent was obtained from the patients for publication of this manuscript and accompanying images. A copy of these written consents is available for review from the journal's Editor-in-Chief. All authors made substantive intellectual contributions to the published study and each author listed on the manuscript has seen and approved the submission of the manuscript. © 2018 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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