Aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy for sebaceous gland hyperplasia

Current therapies for sebaceous hyperplasia (SH) have a high risk for adverse effects and recurrence of treated lesions. The theoretic basis for the treatment of SH by photodynamic therapy (PDT) with 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) has been established. Studies show that 1 hour is sufficient ALA incubation time to achieve clearance, and ALA-induced protoporphyrin IX may be activated with a 585-nm pulsed dye laser device, blue light source, or an intense pulsed light device. Complete clearance may be achieved with one to six treatments; however, long-term recurrence rates are not established. ALA PDT is a safe and effective modality for the treatment of SH lesions of all sizes.