Congenital syringocystadenoma papilliferum of the ear and neck treated with the CO2 laser

Syringocystadenoma papilliferum (SCAP) is a rare benign skin tumor which clinically resembles papilloma. It is characterized by extensive papillary epithelial elements growing into the dermis. SCAP often presents at birth and most commonly in the head and neck. We present a case of a newborn with SCAP of the right ear and neck, treated with CO2 laser excision because the lesion was poorly amenable to excision and closure or grafting. Two CO2 laser procedures have produced a good result and reasonable cosmesis. CO2 laser excision of SCAP of the head and neck is a clinical treatment option in anatomic areas unfavorable to excision and grafting.