Photodynamic therapy for palliation of chest wall recurrence in patients with breast cancer

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Chest wall recurrence occurs in 5-20% of breast cancer patients. Until recently, the only treatments available were surgical resection or radiotherapy. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a new modality that uses a photosensitizer and light to destroy tumor cells selectively. We report here our experience with PDT as a treatment for chest wall recurrence. METHODS: Seven patients with breast cancer who had chest wall recurrence despite previous therapy were treated with PDT. Four patients received one treatment, one received two treatments at the same site, one received two separate treatments at different sites, and one received three separate treatments at distinct sites. Response and adverse events were monitored. RESULTS: The total response rate of 91% (10/11), with complete response (CR) in 73% (8/11) and partial response (PR) in 18% (2/11), was based on total number of treatments. The mean time to lesion healing was 73 days (range <30-99 days). One patient experienced a photosensitivity reaction after exposure to direct sunlight. No other adverse events were recorded. CONCLUSIONS: PDT is an effective treatment for chest wall recurrence in patients with breast cancer in whom other treatments have failed. PDT is also well tolerated, especially when compared with traditional therapies.