Cutaneous Cryosurgery in Dermatology: Evolving Principles and Clinical Applications for Benign, Premalignant, and Malignant Lesions

Abstract

Skin and subcutaneous diseases represent a significant public health burden, profoundly impacting quality of life, social interactions, mental health, and daily activities–raising concerns worldwide. In modern cryogenics, cryosurgery is among the therapeutic approaches employed by healthcare professionals to address this broad and complex range of diseases. Over the past four decades, cryosurgery has evolved into a valuable treatment option, used alone or as an adjunct therapy, and is adaptable to the needs of various special populations. This approach offers distinct advantages over established treatments due to its safety, efficiency, feasibility, and cost-effectiveness. However, a comprehensive, up-to-date review of cryosurgery’s applications is lacking, which limits research dissemination and recognition among dermatologists. This review aims to provide an overview of cryosurgery principles and its current clinical practice in dermatology, covering a broad range of benign, premalignant, and malignant cutaneous conditions, and highlighting its potential as an essential approach in global healthcare.