A single CO2 laser procedure for unresponsive DANP in dogs: key takeaways for veterinary dermatology
Dermal arteritis of the nasal philtrum (DANP) is an uncommon, frustrating condition that can cause persistent ulceration and recurrent nasal bleeding. Published treatment approaches (medical and/or surgical) have been described with inconsistent outcomes and incomplete resolution.
A newly published retrospective study in Veterinary Dermatology evaluated whether CO2 laser ablation could be a practical alternative for difficult, treatment-resistant DANP cases—and the results are worth a close look.
The study at a glance
- Citation: Santoro D. Vet Dermatol. 2026 Feb;37(1):132–139. (Epub 2025 Aug 26). DOI: 10.1111/vde.70022.
- Study type: Retrospective case series
- Cases: 5 client-owned dogs with presumptive or definitive DANP unresponsive to standard treatments
- Intervention: CO2 laser ablation of the ulcer and adjacent tissue until nasal bleeding resolved
Who was treated?
The cohort included two Saint Bernards, one Great Dane, one American Bulldog, and one mixed-breed dog, with a median age of 7 years (range 6–10).
What the authors reported
- Clinical response: The procedure led to complete resolution of bleeding within a few days after the CO2 laser procedure.
- Follow-up: 1 to 12 months, with no relapses of bleeding or ulceration reported in any dog during that period.
- Bottom line (as reported): In this small series, a single CO2 laser ablation was described as practical, cost-effective, and associated with full remission of clinical signs in cases that had not responded to standard management, and the authors note this as the first report describing a CO2 laser as a potential alternative for difficult canine DANP cases.
Why a CO2 laser may matter in DANP
DANP involves the nasal philtrum and can affect larger vessels, where bleeding control and visualization can be major challenges.
The paper specifically points to the intrinsic hemostatic capabilities of a CO2 laser as a reason it may be beneficial in DANP.
From a practical standpoint in dermatologic surgery, a CO2 laser’s ability to ablate soft tissue precisely while supporting hemostasis can help clinicians:
- maintain a clearer surgical field in a vascular area;
- work efficiently in delicate, anatomically constrained tissue;
- potentially reduce tissue handling compared with some traditional approaches (case-dependent).
Technique details, settings, and case selection are best reviewed in the full paper.
Clinical relevance
If you have a CO2 laser and see refractory nasal philtrum arteritis cases, this paper provides a rationale to consider CO2 laser ablation as an option to discuss with owners—especially when ongoing bleeding is impacting quality of life or management has plateaued.
About the author
The study was authored by Domenico Santoro, DVM, MS, DrSc, PhD, professor and service chief of dermatology in the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.
Read the full paper
If you want the full methodology, case details, and the authors’ discussion, the article can be purchased from the Journal of Veterinary Dermatology.
Take the next step
Are you looking to expand soft-tissue capabilities in sensitive, vascular areas? VetScalpel CO2 laser systems are designed to support precise tissue ablation with strong intraoperative control. For lesions and ulcerative conditions where maintaining visibility and managing bleeding matter, a CO2 laser can be a powerful addition to the dermatology toolkit. Learn more about VetScalpel CO2 lasers and how they’re used in specialty practices to support efficient, controlled soft-tissue procedures.
Educational content only; not a substitute for clinical judgment or case-specific consultation.
