At 24 weeks, ALA-PDT reduced AK counts, more than imiquimod, but the imiquimod dose was low.
Investigators performed the first split-face comparison of two effective topical treatment regimens for actinic keratoses (AKs): photodynamic therapy (PDT) with aminolevulinic acid (ALA) and 5% imiquimod cream.
Fifty patients applied half a sachet of 5% imiquimod cream twice weekly for 16 weeks to one selected side of the face. The other side received two sessions, one at the start of the study and the other at 8 weeks, of 1-hour incubation with 0.75 mL of 20% 5-ALA (half a Levulan Kerastick) followed by 1000 seconds (10 J/cm2) of blue light. At 24 weeks, the ALA-PDT side had a mean reduction in AK count of 59.2% versus a mean reduction of 41.4% on the imiquimod side (P=0.002). There was no significant between-side difference in rates of ach…
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresConsultant / Advisory boardAmway
Editorial boards JAMA Dermatology; Dermatologic Surgery; Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology; Lasers in Medical Science; Skin Therapy Letter
Leadership positions in professional societies American Academy of Dermatology (Chair, Health Care Finance Committee); American College of Mohs Surgery (Board of Directors); American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (Board of Directors)
DisclosuresConsultant / Advisory boardAmway
Editorial boards JAMA Dermatology; Dermatologic Surgery; Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology; Lasers in Medical Science; Skin Therapy Letter
Leadership positions in professional societies American Academy of Dermatology (Chair, Health Care Finance Committee); American College of Mohs Surgery (Board of Directors); American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (Board of Directors)