Aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy: medical evidence for its expanded use

Abstract

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has gained much popularity over the past several years as clinicians and researchers have expanded upon its indications and how one should utilize PDT in everyday practice. PDT is not a new field within dermatology or medicine in general, but for all practical reasons, PDT is considered to still be in its infancy. This article will review the history of PDT, explore PDT in both the US and European market place, and show how PDT is best utilized today in the USA. Finally, future ideas/thoughts on where PDT is heading will be surmised.

Keywords::

• actinic keratoses
• ALA (20% 5-aminolevulinic acid)
• hidradenitis suppurativa
• intense pulsed light
• MAL (methyl ester derivative, methylaminolevulinate)
• photodynamic therapy
• pulsed-dye lasers
• sebaceous gland hyperplasia