Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using topically applied delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) for the treatment of oral leukoplakia.
BACKGROUND
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive method for topical and selective treatment of pre-malignant lesions of oral cavity. The aim of our study was to determine therapeutic response to PDT in patients with oral leukoplakia.


METHODS
Twelve patients participated in our study. Lesions affected a variety of intraoral sites. The most common location was buccal, gingival and mandibular mucosa. Patients were treated with topically applied 10% delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) and light from an argon-pumped dye laser. Irradiation was performed in several (6-8) sessions using light at 635 nm wavelength, delivering a total dose of 100 J/cm2 per session.


RESULTS
A complete response was obtained in 10 out of 12 treated patients. One recurrence was observed during 6 months.


CONCLUSIONS
Photodynamic therapy appears to be a feasible alternative to conventional therapy of pre-malignant lesions of oral cavity.
Sieroń
Aleksander
A
Department and Clinic of Internal Diseases and Physical Medicine, Center for Laser Diagnostics and Therapy, Silesian Medical University, 15 Batory Street, PL-41902 Bytom, Poland. asieron@mediclub.pl
Adamek
Mariusz
M
Kawczyk-Krupka
Aleksandra
A
Mazur
Sebastian
S
Ilewicz
Leszek
L
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000622:Aminolevulinic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D007972:Leukoplakia, Oral / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010778:Photochemotherapy; D017319:Photosensitizing Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D017319:Photosensitizing Agents; D000622:Aminolevulinic Acid