Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of the two generation
photosensitizers,
PsD-007 and
hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether (HMME), for
photodynamic therapy (
PDT) of
port-wine stain (PWS). Background: Vascular-targeted
PDT has shown potentially beneficial results in treating PWS; however, the efficacy and safety of various
photosensitizers have not been fully investigated. Materials and methods: We retrospectively analyzed 38 patients with PWS, who were treated with one session of PsD-007-mediated (n = 21) or HMME-mediated (n = 17)
PDT. Clinical efficacy was assessed by a chromameter and visual assessment of color blanching of the PWS lesion. Adverse events were evaluated. Results: Neither visual nor chromameter optical evaluations showed significant differences between the
PsD-007 and HMME groups (p = 0.337 and p = 0.191, respectively). The total response rate was 76.2% (n = 16) in the
PsD-007 group and 88.2% (n = 15) in the HMME group. Good or excellent clearance was achieved in 42.9% patients in the
PsD-007 group and 29.4% patients in the HMME group. The average ΔE (color expressed change or improvement) and mean blanching rate measured optically were higher in the
PsD-007 group than in the HMME group without statistical differences (8.51 vs. 7.39, p = 0.649; 0.37 vs. 0.29, p = 0.191). Incidences of swelling,
pruritus, scab formation, and other adverse reactions were similar for the two groups. There were no
blisters,
scarring, or
hypopigmentation in either group. Conclusions: Both PsD-007- and HMME-mediated PDTs are effective and safe for treatment of PWS. However, HMME has a shorter photosensitivity period than does
PsD-007, which might be more recommended.