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Topical photodynamic therapy in dermatology
R M Szeimies1, P Calzavara-Pinton, S Karrer
1Department of Dermatology, University of Regensburg, Germany.
Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology. B, Biology
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) using 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) offers an effective alternative for skin conditions, avoiding systemic photosensitivity. Further research is needed to standardize protocols for its dermatological application.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Photochemistry
- Oncology
Background:
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has evolved from treating skin diseases to advanced clinical trials for various cancers.
- Systemic photosensitizers in PDT cause prolonged skin sensitivity, a significant drawback.
- Topical PDT offers a solution by bypassing systemic side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) in dermatological applications.
- To explore the role of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) as a topical photosensitizer.
- To identify the potential of new sensitizers and the need for standardized protocols in topical PDT.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing topical 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) as a pro-drug, which is converted in vivo to the active photosensitizer protoporphyrin IX.
- Application of ALA-PDT for various oncologic and non-oncologic skin conditions, including skin cancer, actinic keratoses, and psoriasis.
- Investigating novel photosensitizers such as benzoporphyrines and porphycenes for topical PDT.
Main Results:
- Topical ALA-PDT has demonstrated effectiveness in treating various skin conditions, including non-melanoma skin cancer and actinic keratoses.
- ALA-PDT successfully avoids the prolonged skin photosensitivity associated with systemic photosensitizers.
- Emerging sensitizers show promise, but require further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Topical PDT, particularly with ALA, is an effective treatment modality in dermatology, offering advantages over systemic approaches.
- Further comparative studies and standardized therapeutic protocols are essential to fully establish the role of topical PDT in dermatological practice.
- Newer sensitizers warrant investigation to expand the scope of topical PDT treatments.