The use of photodynamic therapy for treatment of acne vulgaris.

Abstract

Current topical and most oral therapies for acne vulgaris have limited efficacy, especially in moderate to severe cases. Photodynamic therapy with 5-aminolevulinic acid and recently methyl aminolevulinate has been shown to be a safe and effective modality for the treatment of acne vulgaris. Consensus guidelines suggest that 30 to 60 minutes is sufficient 5-aminolevulinic acid contact time before photoactivation with blue light, red light, yellow light, broadband light, halogen, or pulsed dye laser devices. An average of three treatment can yield significant long-term improvement.

• Authors: Mark S Nestor
• Journal: Dermatologic clinics (Dermatol Clin) Vol. 25 Issue 1 Pg. 47-57 (Jan 2007) ISSN: 0733-8635 [Print] United States
• PMID: 17126741 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)

Chemical References

• Photosensitizing Agents
• Aminolevulinic Acid

Topics

• Acne Vulgaris (drug therapy)
• Aminolevulinic Acid (therapeutic use)
• Photochemotherapy
• Photosensitizing Agents (therapeutic use)
• Sebaceous Glands (drug effects, radiation effects)