Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of the two generation photosensitizers, PsD-007 and hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether (HMME), for photodynamic therapy (PDT) of port-wine stain (PWS). Background: Vascular-targeted PDT has shown potentially beneficial results in treating PWS; however, the efficacy and safety of various photosensitizers have not been fully investigated. Materials and methods: We retrospectively analyzed 38 patients with PWS, who were treated with one session of PsD-007-mediated (n = 21) or HMME-mediated (n = 17) PDT. Clinical efficacy was assessed by a chromameter and visual assessment of color blanching of the PWS lesion. Adverse events were evaluated. Results: Neither visual nor chromameter optical evaluations showed significant differences between the PsD-007 and HMME groups (p = 0.337 and p = 0.191, respectively). The total response rate was 76.2% (n = 16) in the PsD-007 group and 88.2% (n = 15) in the HMME group. Good or excellent clearance was achieved in 42.9% patients in the PsD-007 group and 29.4% patients in the HMME group. The average ΔE (color expressed change or improvement) and mean blanching rate measured optically were higher in the PsD-007 group than in the HMME group without statistical differences (8.51 vs. 7.39, p = 0.649; 0.37 vs. 0.29, p = 0.191). Incidences of swelling, pruritus, scab formation, and other adverse reactions were similar for the two groups. There were no blisters, scarring, or hypopigmentation in either group. Conclusions: Both PsD-007- and HMME-mediated PDTs are effective and safe for treatment of PWS. However, HMME has a shorter photosensitivity period than does PsD-007, which might be more recommended.
Keywords: HMME; PsD-007; photodynamic therapy; photosensitizer; port-wine stain.