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Lee, Kim, Park, and Son: Topical Aminolaevulinic Acid-Photodynamic Therapy for the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Inflammatory Acne
Original Article
Clinical Trial

Annals of Dermatology 2007; 19(2): 55-59.

Published online: 30 June 2007

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5021/ad.2007.19.2.55

Topical Aminolaevulinic Acid-Photodynamic Therapy for the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Inflammatory Acne

June Hyunkyung Lee, M.D.1, Seong Eon Kim, MSc.2, Kun Park, M.D.1, Sook ja Son, M.D.1

Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Eulji University, Seoul, Korea.

1Rebbon Dermatologic Clinic, Seoul, Korea.

Corresponding author (ssjmdderma@eulji.ac.kr)

Copyright © 2007 The Korean Dermatological Association and The Korean Society for Investigative Dermatology

Abstract

Background

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is a new technique. PDT is being studied extensively and is used in a variety of dermatology settings.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of topical ALA-PDT in patients with mild to moderate inflammatory acne.

Method

Ten patients were enrolled in a clinical trial to evaluate ALA-PDT with activation by intense pulsed light. They were given a 20% topical ALA photosensitizing agent that remained in contact with the skin for 60 minutes before irradiation. No additional treatment was provided after PDT.

Results

The Korean acne grading system was used for clinical assessment. Our results showed a statistically significant clinical improvement of the inflammatory acne at eight weeks after two sessions of treatment. Side effects such as slight discomfort, burning and stinging were reported during the irradiation.

Conclusion

ALA-PDT is a safe and effective treatment modality for inflammatory acne.

Keywords: Acne, Aminolevulinic acid, Intense pulsed light, Korean acne grading system, Photodynamic therapy

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