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Nodular basal cell carcinoma in Gorlin's syndrome treated with systemic photodynamic therapy and interstitial optical
Vishal Madan1, Juliette A Loncaster, Donald Allan
1Dermatology Centre, Hope Hospital, Salford, Manchester, M6 8HD, UK.
Abstract:
Nodular basal cell carcinomas resistant to multiple forms of treatment in two patients with nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (Gorlin's syndrome) were treated with systemic porfimer sodium-based photodynamic therapy. Interstitially placed optical diffuser fibers were used to deliver light. Good response to treatment was seen on clinical evaluation and on measurement by a 20-MHz high-resolution ultrasound.
Insights
Systemic photodynamic therapy using porfimer sodium effectively treated nodular basal cell carcinomas in Gorlin's syndrome patients resistant to other therapies. High-resolution ultrasound confirmed positive treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Photomedicine
Background:
- Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (Gorlin's syndrome) often presents with multiple basal cell carcinomas.
- Treatment resistance is a significant challenge in managing these complex cases.
Observation:
- Two patients with Gorlin's syndrome and treatment-resistant nodular basal cell carcinomas were studied.
- Systemic porfimer sodium-based photodynamic therapy (PDT) with interstitial optical diffuser fibers was administered.
Findings:
- Clinical evaluation indicated a good response to the photodynamic therapy.
- High-resolution ultrasound (20-MHz) corroborated the positive treatment effects.
Implications:
- Systemic PDT offers a promising therapeutic option for recalcitrant basal cell carcinomas in Gorlin's syndrome.
- This approach may improve management strategies for rare genetic cancer predisposition syndromes.
