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Randomized Controlled Trial
. 2015 Feb;29(2):325-329.
doi: 10.1111/jdv.12538. Epub 2014 Apr 23.

Photodynamic therapy vs. imiquimod 5% cream as skin cancer preventive strategies in patients with field changes: a randomized intraindividual comparison study

E Sotiriou  1 , Z Apalla  1 , F Vrani  1 , A Lallas  1 , E Chovarda  1 , D Ioannides  1
Affiliations
Randomized Controlled Trial

Photodynamic therapy vs. imiquimod 5% cream as skin cancer preventive strategies in patients with field changes: a randomized intraindividual comparison study

E Sotiriou et al. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2015 Feb.

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.

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References

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