Review article

Photodynamic Therapy in Dermatology

Krešimir Kostović

Abstract

Photodynamic therapy is a new form of phototherapy
which involves the use of photochemical reactions
mediated through the interaction of photosensitizing agents,
light and oxygen. Photodynamic therapy is a two step procedure.
In the fi rst step, the photosensitizer is administered topically or
systemically, and it accumulates in the target cells. The second
step involves the activation of the photosensitizer in the presence
of oxygen with a specifi c wavelength of visible light, and
destruction of target cells. In dermatology, it is used mainly for
oncological indications: multiple actinic keratoses, superfi cial
basal cell carcinomas, and Bowen’s disease. The advantages
of this treatment modality are: effi cacy comparable to that of
standard treatment modalities; ability to treat multiple lesions
simultaneously; it is noninvasive; good tolerance; repeated
application will not result in cumulative toxicity, and good cosmetic
results.

Keywords

photodynamic therapy; dermatology; photosensitizer; skin cancer

Hrčak ID:

23279

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/23279

Publication date:

25.1.2007.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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