Home Self-Applied Daylight Photodynamic Therapy: Current Map in Spain and Management Proposals

To determine the current practices of Spanish dermatologists performing home self-applied daylight photodynamic therapy (dPDT), and their experience with this treatment.

We conducted a retrospective, multicenter, cross-sectional observational study with participation from 100 dermatologists from public and private Spanish hospitals. Their practices were collected through an online questionnaire and prepared based on a literature review, including experience, climatology, advantages, disadvantages and satisfaction with the self-applied dPDT.

A total of 38.4% of dermatologists have >5 years of experience using dPDT and 72.7% alternate consultation and home self-application. A total of 61.1% of dermatologists do not have specific protocols for self-application and 69.4% explain instructions to their patients personally. A total of 50% prefer to apply dPDT in months of greater solar activity and 70.8% recommend treatment during the morning. A total of 95.9% of the patients are satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment.

Self-applied dPDT is an effective and well-tolerated option to treat AK, especially in patients who adequately follow instructions and have family support. It is necessary to protocolize the self-applied dPDT to guarantee a greater safety and efficacy profile in the home application format.