Photodynamic therapy vs. imiquimod 5% cream as skin cancer preventive strategies in patients with field changes: a randomized intraindividual comparison study.
Title | Photodynamic therapy vs. imiquimod 5% cream as skin cancer preventive strategies in patients with field changes: a randomized intraindividual comparison study. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2015 |
Authors | Sotiriou, E., Apalla Z., Vrani F., Lallas A., Chovarda E., & Ioannides D. |
Journal | J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol |
Volume | 29 |
Issue | 2 |
Pagination | 325-329 |
Date Published | 2015 Feb |
ISSN | 1468-3083 |
Keywords | Adjuvants, Immunologic, Administration, Topical, Aged, Aminoquinolines, Female, Humans, Imiquimod, Male, Middle Aged, Photochemotherapy, Skin Neoplasms |
Abstract | BACKGROUND: Actinic damage is responsible for the development of multiple, recurrent non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs), including actinic keratoses (AKs). Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and imiquimod cream (IMIQ) 5% are recommended as field-directed treatment options.OBJECTIVES: To compare efficacy and safety of methyl aminolevulinate (MAL)-PDT vs. IMIQ 5% in the prevention of new NMSCs development patients with field changes.METHODS: Patients with field cancerization of the face or scalp were randomized to receive MAL-PDT on one side, and IMIQ 5% on the mirror field. The primary endpoint was the number of new lesions on the treated fields during a 12-month follow-up period. Secondary assessments included adverse events and patient preference.RESULTS: Forty-four patients completed the study. MAL-PDT and IMIQ did not differ concerning the primary endpoint, as there was no statistically significant difference in terms of development of new NMSCs at any point of follow-up. Both treatment regimens were safe and well tolerated. Patients' preference based on the procedure, response rates and future choice favoured MAL-PDT.CONCLUSIONS: MAL-PDT and IMIQ 5% are safe and well-tolerated treatments that equally prevent development of new AKs in patients suffering from field changes. MAL-PDT treatment appears to be superior in terms of patients' preference. |
DOI | 10.1111/jdv.12538 |
Alternate Journal | J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol |
PubMed ID | 24754529 |