Review of clinical trials shows photodynamic therapy improves efficacy and cosmetic outcomes in basal cell carcinoma patients, suggesting it as a viable treatment option.
The aim of the study was to collect and analyze published data from clinical trials on the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) using 5-ALA-based drugs and its esters in patients with basal cell carcinoma (BCC). The review was conducted using the PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov databases for the period from 1995 to 2025. Large prospective and retrospective studies with more than 20 patients were included in the analysis. The efficacy of PDT was examined and compared with traditional treatment methods. The analysis demonstrated significant efficacy of PDT in the treatment of BCC. The complete regression rate ranged from 84% to 99% after 3 months of therapy, from 62% to 96% after 12 months, and from 70% to 91% after 5 years. A significantly better cosmetic outcome was recorded compared with surgical methods. Studies have confirmed that PDT has a high safety profile, with severe side effects rare. The most common adverse effects include mild skin irritation, redness, and mild discomfort, which resolve on their own.
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Филоненко et al. (2025) studied this question.
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