Photodynamic Therapy in Primary Cutaneous Skin Lymphoma-Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Photomedicine

Background:

• Primary cutaneous lymphomas (CLs) are skin-limited lymphoproliferative disorders.
• Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCLs) and B-cell lymphomas (CBCLs) are major subtypes.
• Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an emerging non-invasive, light-activated treatment for CLs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the clinical use and efficacy of PDT in managing CLs.
• To evaluate current evidence on PDT for various cutaneous lymphoma subtypes.
• To assess the safety and outcomes of PDT in treating skin lymphomas.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across PubMed, Scopus, and Embase up to September 1, 2024.
• Included 30 studies after screening 1033 records, following PRISMA guidelines.
• Extracted and categorized data by lymphoma subtype (MF, LyP, CBCL) and clinical outcomes.

Main Results:

• PDT demonstrated significant efficacy in early-stage mycosis fungoides (MF) and some CBCLs.
• Methyl aminolevulinate (MAL) and 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) were common photosensitizers.
• PDT was well-tolerated with mild side effects; adjunctive therapies enhanced outcomes.

Conclusions:

• PDT is a promising non-invasive option for early-stage CLs, especially MF and indolent CBCLs.
• Current evidence supports PDT's safety and effectiveness in managing cutaneous lymphomas.
• Further prospective studies are required to optimize PDT protocols and compare photosensitizers.