Methylaminolaevulinate photodynamic therapy in patients with multiple basal cell carcinomas in the setting of Gorlin-Goltz syndrome or after radiotherapy

Dermatology. 2009;219(2):138-42. doi: 10.1159/000228316. Epub 2009 Jul 8.

Abstract

Background: The naevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS) is a therapeutic challenge due to the multiplicity of cutaneous tumours. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is increasingly used as an alternative treatment for superficial and in some countries nodular basal cell carcinomas (BCC).

Objective: To study the safety and efficiency of PDT in NBCCS.

Methods: We reviewed retrospectively the evolution of 62 lesions from patients with multiple BCC treated with PDT.

Results: The initial response rate (85.4%, 53/62) and recurrence rate (7.5%) appeared comparable to literature values in NBCCS and to those reported in the treatment of sporadic BCC. The clearance rate without recurrence was 79% (49/62), during a mean follow-up period of 13 months. The cosmetic outcome was excellent. Recurrences were found almost 2 years after treatment.

Conclusion: PDT is a suitable therapeutic option in the management of NBCCS patients but requires a strict and long follow-up.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aminolevulinic Acid / therapeutic use*
  • Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome / radiotherapy*
  • Cohort Studies
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / pathology*
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / therapy
  • Photochemotherapy / adverse effects
  • Photochemotherapy / methods*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risk Assessment
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Skin Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Skin Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Aminolevulinic Acid