Nodular amyloidosis treated with a pulsed dye laser.

BACKGROUND: Nodular amyloidosis is a rare form of primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis which is characterized by single or multiple nodules located on the extremities, trunk, genitalia, or face.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the clinical and histologic response of nodular amyloidosis to pulsed dye laser treatment.

METHODS: Biopsy-proven amyloid nodules were treated with a 585-nm pulsed dye laser (average fluence 5.25 J/cm2; 10 mm spot) at 6- to 8-week time intervals. Clinical and histologic examination of laser-irradiated nodules were performed before and 6 weeks after the final laser treatment.

RESULTS: Clinical improvement in the color, size, and pliability of nodules was noted and maintained for 6 months. Histologic examination revealed decreased inflammation and improvement in dermal collagen after laser irradiation.

CONCLUSIONS: Since amyloid fibrils may be formed in association with dermatan sulfate-an essential matrix component in collagen fiber formation, it is postulated that the improvement seen in amyloid nodules after pulsed dye laser treatment may be attributed to a mechanism similar to that seen with hypertrophic scars.