Photodynamic therapy with low-strength ALA, repeated applications and short contact periods (40-60 minutes) in acne, photoaging and vitiligo

Gabriel Serrano; Matilde Lorente; Madga Reyes; Fernando Millán; Adrián Lloret; Joaquín Melendez; Maria Navarro; Miguel Navarro

Photodynamic therapy with low-strength ALA, repeated applications and short contact periods (40-60 minutes) in acne, photoaging and vitiligo

J Drugs Dermatol. 2009 Jun;8(6):562-8.

Authors

Gabriel Serrano¹, Matilde Lorente, Madga Reyes, Fernando Millán, Adrián Lloret, Joaquín Melendez, Maria Navarro, Miguel Navarro

Affiliation

¹ Clínica Dermatológica Serrano,Valencia, Spain. gabriels@sesderma.com

PMID: 19537381

Abstract

Topical aminolevulinic acid (ALA) photodynamic therapy (PDT) is currently being used for the treatment of actinic keratosis of the face and scalp. This study reports the results obtained after three to four treatments with ALA-PDT in patients with acne (n=12), photoaging (n=8) and vitiligo (n=6). ALA was applied on large areas (e.g., full face) and at very low strengths (1-2%). Side effects were minimal and self-limited.

MeSH terms

Acne Vulgaris / drug therapy*
Administration, Topical
Adolescent
Adult
Aminolevulinic Acid / administration & dosage
Aminolevulinic Acid / adverse effects
Aminolevulinic Acid / therapeutic use*
Drug Administration Schedule
Female
Humans
Male
Photochemotherapy* / adverse effects
Photosensitizing Agents / administration & dosage
Photosensitizing Agents / adverse effects
Photosensitizing Agents / therapeutic use*
Skin Aging / drug effects*
Vitiligo / drug therapy*

Substances

Photosensitizing Agents
Aminolevulinic Acid