MARINA LANDAU MD
First published: February 02, 2007
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1524-4725.2006.33037.x
Abstract: Deep chemical peels have been used in dermatology for over a century. The main indications for this procedure include photoaging, perioral wrinkles, acne scars and precancerous skin lesions. The most important potential complication of deep peels is cardiotoxicity.
OBJECTIVE: The objective was to evaluate the incidence of cardiac complications during deep chemical facial peeling and to suggest methods to reduce the rate of this potential complication.
METHODS: Clinical data were recorded for patients treated with full facial deep chemical peels between December 1, 2004 and November 30, 2005. Complete cardiomonitoring was performed during the peeling procedure. Any arrhythmia or medical intervention was recorded.
RESULTS: A total of 181 patients were treated during the study period. All patients were female; median age was 56 years (range 30-77 years). In 12 patients (6.6%), cardiac arrhythmia was recorded during the procedure. Cardiac arrhythmia was more common in patients with diabetes, hypertension and depression. In 4 patients the arrhythmia was self-limited and did not require any intervention. In the other 8 patients, 100 mg of lidocaine was given intravenously to control the arrhythmia.
Conclusion: The incidence of cardiac complications in appropriately performed deep chemical peels is lower than previously thought.