Photodynamic Therapy for Skin Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): F. Cairnduff, M.R. Stringer, E.J. Hudson, D.V. Ash, S.B. Brown
Primary Institution: Cookridge Hospital, University of Leeds
Hypothesis
Can superficial photodynamic therapy using topical 5-aminolaevulinic acid effectively treat superficial primary and secondary skin cancers?
Conclusion
The study found that superficial photodynamic therapy with ALA cream resulted in a high complete response rate for Bowen's disease but less effective results for basal cell carcinomas and poor responses for metastatic lesions.
Supporting Evidence
- Complete response rate of 89% for Bowen's disease at 18 months follow-up.
- 50% complete response rate for basal cell carcinomas at 17 months follow-up.
- Metastatic lesions showed poor response to treatment.
Takeaway
Doctors used a special cream and light to treat skin cancer, and it worked really well for some types but not for others.
Methodology
The study involved applying 20% ALA cream to skin lesions, followed by light treatment with a specific wavelength, and assessing the response over time.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and less effective results for basal cell carcinomas and metastatic lesions.
Participant Demographics
Patients included those with Bowen's disease, basal cell carcinomas, and metastatic skin cancers, with a median follow-up of 18 months.
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