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Narrative review highlights photodynamic therapy's effectiveness in various skin diseases, suggesting improvements for better outcomes.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive treatment widely used in dermatology for various skin diseases. It works through the interaction of a photosensitizer, light, and oxygen, producing reactive oxygen species that selectively destroy abnormal cells. PDT is well established in treating conditions such as actinic keratosis, Bowen’s disease, and superficial basal cell carcinoma, with good cosmetic outcomes. Increasing evidence also supports its use in non-cancerous conditions, including acne, photoaging, and certain infections. Despite its advantages, limitations such as treatment-related pain and reduced effectiveness in thicker lesions remain challenges. Ongoing research aims to improve photosensitizers, delivery methods, and light technologies to enhance its clinical effectiveness.
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Beutler et al. (2026) studied this question.
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