Photodynamic therapy for non-melanoma skin cancer
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is being studied as a treatment for non-melanoma 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 carcinomas in the earliest stage (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
Researchers believe that PDT may be particularly effective in treating actinic keratoses, large or multiple skin cancers, Bowen's disease, or some basal cell cancers. But PDT is not used for the treatment of nodular basal cell carcinomas or fully developed squamous cell carcinomas.2, 3
| Author: | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH Carrie Henley | Last Updated: January 29, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology | |
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