Actinic keratosis (AK) has a negative impact on patients’ physical and psychological quality of life due to disease chronicity, fear of progression to keratinocyte carcinoma, and effect on cosmetic appearance. |
Methyl aminolevulinate (MAL), used as a topical precursor in conjunction with photodynamic therapy (PDT), is an approved and recommended treatment option for patients with AK in certain countries. |
As a field-directed therapy, MAL-PDT has demonstrated high efficacy in clearing AK lesions with low recurrence rates, is generally well tolerated, and provides favorable cosmetic outcomes. |
MAL-PDT is a safe and effective treatment option for both immunocompetent patients and those who are immunosuppressed, such as organ transplant recipients, with or without additional pre-treatments. |
MAL is efficacious when used in conjunction with any of the available PDT modalities (conventional, daylight, or artificial daylight). |
AK is a chronic disease requiring repeated treatment sessions; MAL-PDT provides flexible treatment strategies to suit the needs of the patient, potentially optimizing treatment adherence. |
Open Access 10.06.2023 | Review
A Review of MAL-PDT for the Treatment Strategy of Actinic Keratosis: Broader Clinical Perspectives Beyond the Data and Guideline Recommendations
Erschienen in: Dermatology and Therapy | Ausgabe 7/2023