Regularization scheme ambiguities in topologically massive gauge theories

It is demonstrated that in the (2+1)-dimensional topologically massive gauge theories an agreement of the Pauli-Villars regularization scheme with the other schemes can be achieved by extending it to incorporate pairs of auxiliary fermions with the opposite sign masses. This approach does not introduce additional violation of the discrete P and T symmetries but breaks the local gauge symmetry in the regulator fields sector. However, it is shown that superrenormalizability of the models renders the local gauge symmetry-breaking harmless: the symmetry is restored after the regularization is removed. It is shown also that analogous extension of the Pauli-Villars regularization works in the vector particle sector too. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}