Evaluating photodynamic therapy for oral precancerous lesions: Highlighting outcome measure of malignant...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Photomedicine

Background:

• Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is used for oral precancerous lesions (OPL).
• Previous studies primarily measured clinical response (lesion size).
• Malignant transformation and recurrence are more critical outcomes for OPL interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing evidence on PDT's efficacy in preventing OPL recurrence and malignant transformation.
• To highlight the need for robust studies focusing on these primary outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 eligible studies.
• Analysis of pooled recurrence rates for OPL patients treated with PDT.
• Examination of reported malignant transformation rates.

Main Results:

• The pooled recurrence rate for OPL after PDT was 20.1% (95% CI: 16.2-24.6%).
• Only one study reported a malignant transformation rate of 7.5% following PDT for OPL.
• Evidence quality is limited by study design, patient heterogeneity, sample size, and follow-up duration.

Conclusions:

• PDT demonstrates a significant recurrence rate in OPL.
• Current evidence on PDT's impact on malignant transformation is scarce and requires cautious interpretation.
• Further well-designed, longitudinal studies with extended follow-up are essential to evaluate PDT's role in preventing OPL malignant transformation.