Practical photodynamic therapy for the Canadian dermatologist

Authors

  • Toni Burbidge, MD, FRCPC

Abstract

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is used in dermatology for the treatment of malignant and non-malignant cutaneous diseases. PDT utilizes a photosensitizing agent and visible light in the presence of oxygen to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS then induce apoptosis of cellular components leading to cell death. PDT is approved in Canada for the treatment of non-hyperkeratotic actinic keratoses (AK) and superficial basal cell carcinoma (BCC) outside the H-zone of the face. In addition, some European countries have approved its use in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma in-situ (SCCis) and thin nodular BCC.

Off-label uses of PDT include acne, photoaging, infectious dermatoses, and malignancies such as cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL), and extra-mammary Paget’s disease. This review will focus on the practical use of PDT for the treatment of premalignant and malignant lesions.

Author Biography

Toni Burbidge, MD, FRCPC

Dr. Toni Burbidge is a dermatologist based in Calgary, Alberta where she practices medical and surgical dermatology. She is dual board-certified in both Canada and the United States. She completed her medical degree at the University of Toronto, and dermatology residency at the University of Calgary. She has a special interest in cutaneous oncology and is involved in melanoma research with the multi-disciplinary cutaneous oncology team at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre in Calgary. She also teaches medical residents and other learners in her affiliation with the University of Calgary as a clinical lecturer.

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Published

2020-11-01

How to Cite

1.
Burbidge T. Practical photodynamic therapy for the Canadian dermatologist. Can Dermatol Today [Internet]. 2020 Nov. 1 [cited 2024 May 20];1(4):24-8. Available from: https://canadiandermatologytoday.com/article/view/1-4-burbidge

Issue

Volume 1, Issue 4, November 2020

Section

Articles