Use of photodynamic therapy for treatment of actinic keratoses in organ transplant recipients

Biomed Res Int. 2013:2013:349526. doi: 10.1155/2013/349526. Epub 2012 Dec 24.

Abstract

Solid organ transplant recipients are predisposed to actinic keratoses (AK) and nonmelanoma skin cancers, owing to the lifelong immunosuppression required. Today, increasing numbers of organ transplants are being performed and organ transplant recipients (OTRs) are surviving much longer. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is proving a highly effective treatment modality for AK amongst this susceptible group of patients. Following an overview of the pathogenesis of AK amongst OTRs, the authors review current safety and efficacy data and how this relates to the role of PDT for the treatment of AK in OTRs.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Immunosuppression Therapy / adverse effects
  • Keratosis, Actinic / complications
  • Keratosis, Actinic / therapy*
  • Organ Transplantation*
  • Photochemotherapy* / adverse effects
  • Photosensitizing Agents / therapeutic use
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use
  • Risk Factors
  • Skin Neoplasms / complications
  • Skin Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Photosensitizing Agents
  • Plant Extracts