Professional paper

Photodynamic Therapy in Dermatology: Current Treatments and Implications

Kresimir Kostovic ; University of Zagreb, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Zagreb, Croatia
Zrinjka Pastar ; University of Zagreb, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Zagreb, Croatia
Romana Ceovic ; University of Zagreb, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Zagreb, Croatia
Zrinka Bukvic Mokos ; University of Zagreb, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Zagreb, Croatia
Daska Stulhofer Buzina ; University of Zagreb, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Zagreb, Croatia
Andrija Stanimirovic ; University of Applied Health Studies, Zagreb, Croatia

Abstract

This article provides an update on photodynamic therapy by discussing each of the essential components in sequence: mechanisms of action, common photosensitizers, typical light sources, and indications. In dermatology, photodynamic therapy (PDT) is mainly used in the treatment of superficial skin cancers: actinic keratoses, Bowen’s disease and superficial basal cell carcinomas. However, the range of indications has been expanding continuously. PDT is also used for the
treatment of other oncological indications and non-malignant conditions such as acne vulgaris and photoaged skin. The 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) or its methyl ester (MAL) is applied topically as photosensitizer before activation with visible light. The advantages of topical PDT are: ability to treat multiple lesions simultaneously, low invasiveness, good tolerance and excellent cosmetic results.

Keywords

photodynamic therapy; superficial skin cancers

Hrčak ID:

95026

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/95026

Publication date:

27.12.2012.

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