Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) Utilizing Multiple Light Sources Significantly Improves Clinical Efficacy and Subject Satisfaction with a Review of PDT Mechanisms of Action

Abstract

Introduction:

Many topically applied devices and medicaments have been developed to give hope to people who want to reduce the signs of visible aging. All modalities have benefits and risks, and no single modality produces complete resolution of photoaging. Although approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of epithelial neoplasia, photodynamic therapy (PDT) is also reported to produce significant benefits in reducing photoaging. The goal of this study was to determine if clinical response and subject satisfaction can be improved for PDT while reducing downtime and increasing activation of the photosensitizer.

Materials and Methods:

In a regimen administered monthly for 3 treatments, 14 subjects participated in a prospective intervention pilot trial using an 830 nm light-emitting diode (LED), a 540 nm advanced fluorescence technology laser, a 570 nm advanced fluorescence technology laser, and a 633 nm LED. The photoactivation phase was initiated with the 830 nm LED 10 minutes after application of 20% 5-aminolevulinic acid, followed by each modality in listed order. Baseline global extrinsic aging scores were compared with scores 1 month after the final treatment. Subject satisfaction scores were also obtained 1 month after the final treatment.

Results:

Twelve subjects completed this trial. The global extrinsic aging score improved from a baseline of 3.3 to 1.0. Of these 12 subjects, 10 (84%) indicated that they were satisfied or very satisfied with the results 1 month after completion of the treatment.

Conclusions:

This photodynamic therapy regimen is very effective while being better tolerated and involving less downtime. The treatment can also be completed in a shorter time than regimens requiring a longer incubation time.