Adverse effects associated with photodynamic therapy (PDT) of port-wine stain (PWS) birthmarks

Several Chinese studies suggest that Hemoporfin-mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an alternative treatment for port-wine stain (PWS) birthmarks.

To evaluate treatment responses and adverse effects associated with Hemoporfin PDT for the treatment of PWS and their management.

The medical records of 700 patients who underwent PDT treatment in our center were retrospectively examined. Treatment-related reactions and adverse effects were reviewed.

Different types of PWS lesions and different individuals showed different immediate responses (e.g. swelling, color change, pain). To certain extents these reactions were a useful indicator of the treatment endpoint. Edema and scabbing were the most common post-treatment responses. Short-term (e.g. blister, eczematous dermatitis, cutaneous photosensitivity) and long-term (e.g. pigmentation change, scar formation) adverse effects were generally caused by the phototoxicity associated with the combination of photosensitizer and light exposure.

Although PDT is a safe treatment alternative for PWS birthmarks, treatment parameters must be selected for each individual patient and cutaneous changes must be monitored during light irradiation to minimize the risk of adverse effects. Over estimation of required light dosage or failure to recognize cutaneous changes associated with adverse effects can increase the risk of a poor outcome.