Adverse reactions of ALA-PDT for the treatment of cutaneous diseases: A retrospective study.

BACKGROUND

5-Aminolaevulinic acid photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT) is an effective therapy for cutaneous diseases, such as precancers, superficial non melanoma skin cancers and certain inflammatory or viral conditions. However, the absence of a complete picture of adverse reactions limits the promotion of ALA-PDT.

OBJECTIVE

To systemically investigate the detailed evidence of adverse reactions relating to ALA-PDT for skin diseases.

METHODS

A retrospective study performed at the Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital.

RESULTS

In the retrospective study, 439 patients were included. Incidences of adverse reactions, including in-treatment pain (98.8%), erythema (92.4%), edema (35.0%), exudation (23.0%), hyperpigmentation (27.3%) were clarified. Edema was more common in female patients (P<0.05). Patients with HPV-related skin diseases were more likely to suffer erythema, edema or exudation (P<0.05). Hyperpigmentation was more likely to occur in skin appendage disorders (P<0.05). Fever (2.4%) and hypopigmentation (1.9%) are two neglected adverse reactions analyzed in detail. Fever is more prevalent in female patients. Hypopigmentation occurred predominantly in elderly with skin cancer or precancerosis lesions.

CONCLUSION

The results outline detailed information about the adverse reactions, including systemic reactions following ALA-PDT, assisting dermatologists in predicting and managing adverse reactions for greater efficacy and higher patient satisfaction.