[Lasers in dermatology].

Lasers are mainly used in therapeutics for their thermic effects. In dermatology, the most appropriate is the argon laser and its only uncontroverted indication is part-wine stain. The blue-green radiations of the argon laser are selectively absorbed by the haemoglobin pigment, so that coagulation necrosis is maximum in the dysplastic vessels. Since the non-pigmented surrounding tissues and, more precisely, skin appendages are relatively respected, healing is rapid and of good quality. Following the often protracted treatment, a satisfactory downgrading of colour is obtained, without scar in 60-80% of cases. The best results are observed in dark portwine stains located on the face or trunk in adults. All other indications are open to discussion since the superiority of laser over other treatments remains to be demonstrated or confirmed. Interesting indications are spider angioma and telangiectasis of the face (argon laser), extensive ano-genital verrucosis (CO2 laser or argon laser), mucosal leukoplasia and some cases of Bowen's disease affecting the genitalia.