title: Incorporating photodynamic therapy into a medical and cosmetic dermatology practice.
abstract: Effective in the treatment of a growing variety of skin conditions, photodynamic therapy (PDT) with 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is rising rapidly in popularity among both practitioners and patients, despite the fact that many applications are not yet cleared by the Food and Drug Administration. Because of its versatility, safety, efficacy, cosmetic benefits, and potential financial advantages, ALA-PDT may soon be a mainstay in many clinical settings. This article provides an overview of this easy-to-use treatment modality and a guide to implementing ALA-PDT into practice, including pretreatment and post-treatment protocols and guidelines for managing side effects.
authors.affiliation: Newport Dermatology and Laser Associates, 1441 Avacado, Suite 806, Newport Beach, CA 92660, USA. lazrdoc@pacbell.net
authors.forename: Dore J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Gilbert
mesh_terms: D003880:Dermatology; D006801:Humans; D009817:Office Management; D010778:Photochemotherapy; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy