Photodynamic therapy.
ALA-PDT is a safe, well-tolerated, and effective treatment for many dermatologic conditions. Current data most strongly support its use in the treatment of actinic damage, but further investigation into alternative uses continues. Current efficacy is limited primarily by the depth of penetration of the photosensitizing agent and the activating light source. Even with this limitation, the potential applications of PDT are numerous. As new technology is developed to overcome current restraints, the future of PDT is wide open.
MacCormack
Mollie A
MA
Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA. mollie.maccormack@lahey.org
D006801:Humans; D010778:Photochemotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D017319:Photosensitizing Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy
D017319:Photosensitizing Agents