Photodynamic therapy in superficial basal cell carcinoma treatment

Abstract

Basal cell cancer (BCC) is an epithelial neoplasm that arises from basal cells, which constitute the lower layer of the epidermis. Global statistics have shown the progressive increase in the incidence of skin cancer in several countries. The cumulative exposure to solar radiation (ultraviolet B) in the first two decades of life represents the critical risk for the disease. Preclinical and clinical trials have shown photodynamic therapy (PDT) as a promising innovation for treatment of skin cancers, especially to the non-melanoma group. The authors reviewed trials with photodynamic therapy in superficial basal cell carcinoma with different photosensitizers to better evaluate how PDT modifies the natural history of sBCC. We conclude trials should not assess only the immediate efficacy but the main goal of long-term effectiveness of the protocols in order to generate best evidence for clinical practice.

Keywords: Basal cell carcinoma; Clinical trials; Nanomedicine; Photodynamic therapy; Photosensitizers.