Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer: Photodynamic Therapy
Topic Overview
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is being studied as a treatment for
nonmelanoma skin cancer. PDT is a process of applying
a medicine to a skin cancer and then shining a special laser light on it.
Results of early studies with the medicine 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) show
that topical PDT may be effective in treating
actinic keratoses on the face and scalp,
squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowen's disease), and superficial
basal cell carcinomas. Studies report good results
with skin appearance after treatment and a low rate of side effects.1
Studies of PDT with methyl aminolevulinate (MAL) found that this treatment was as effective as cryosurgery for actinic keratoses and squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowen's disease).2
References
Citations
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Liu H, et al. (2004). Photodynamic therapy of
multiple nonmelanoma skin cancers with verteprofin and red light-emitting
diodes: Two-year results evaluating tumor response and cosmetic outcomes.
Archives of Dermatology, 140(1): 26–32.
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National Comprehensive Cancer Network (2010). Basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers. NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology, Version 1. Available online: http://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/PDF/nmsc.pdf.
Credits
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By
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Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
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Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology |
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Last Revised
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October 1, 2010 |
Last Revised:
October 1, 2010
Liu H, et al. (2004). Photodynamic therapy of
multiple nonmelanoma skin cancers with verteprofin and red light-emitting
diodes: Two-year results evaluating tumor response and cosmetic outcomes.
Archives of Dermatology, 140(1): 26–32.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network (2010). Basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers. NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology, Version 1. Available online: http://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/PDF/nmsc.pdf.
