Szeimies RM, Karrer S, Radakovic-Fijan S, Tanew A, Calzavara-Pinton PG, Zane C, Sidoroff A, Hempel M, Ulrich J, Proebstle T, Meffert H, Mulder M, Salomon D, Dittmar HC, Bauer JW, Kernland K, Braathen L. Photodynamic therapy using topical methyl 5-aminolevulinate compared with cryotherapy for actinic keratosis: A prospective, randomized study.
J Am Acad Dermatol 2002;
47:258-62. [PMID:
12140473]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND
Actinic keratoses (AKs) are the most common premalignant tumors. Without treatment, a significant number of patients with AK will experience squamous cell carcinoma. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using the new highly selective photosensitizer methyl 5-aminolevulinate is a promising new treatment modality for AK.
OBJECTIVE
We investigated the complete response rates, cosmetic outcome, and patient satisfaction after photodynamic therapy (PDT) using methyl 5-aminolevulinate (Metvix) versus cryotherapy in the treatment of AKs.
METHODS
Patients were randomized to receive either cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen spray or PDT using methyl 5-aminolevulinate cream 160 mg/g, 3 hours application time, and red light (75 J/cm(2)).
RESULTS
Efficacy results from 193 patients with 699 lesions (92% face/scalp and 93% thin/moderately thick) were analyzed. Overall complete response rates after 3 months were 69% for PDT and 75% for cryotherapy. Both treatments gave higher response rates in thin lesions (PDT 75%, cryotherapy 80%). PDT gave better cosmetic results and higher patient satisfaction than cryotherapy.
CONCLUSION
PDT using methyl 5-aminolevulinate is an attractive treatment option for patients with AK, with a response rate similar to that of cryotherapy, but with superior cosmetic results and high patient satisfaction.
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