A review of the use of cutaneous cryotherapy in dermatology

Abstract

Cutaneous cryotherapy, also referred to as cryosurgery, is a well-established dermatological procedure that uses extreme cold to achieve controlled tissue destruction. It is a versatile and effective treatment for a broad range of skin conditions, including benign, premalignant, and select superficial malignant lesions. Multiple application methods, such as spray, contact, and intralesional techniques, allow for tailored, lesion-specific approaches. Despite its proven utility, cryotherapy is often an under-recognised and inconsistently utilised, particularly among dermatology trainees. This review presents a practical overview of cryotherapy techniques and indications aimed at helping dermatologists integrate this versatile modality into their everyday clinical practice