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Popa A, Dumitrascu MC, Petca A, Petca RC, Sandru F. Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: Navigating Sex Hormone Dynamics and Pioneering Personalized Treatment Paradigm. J Pers Med 2024; 14:76. [PMID: 38248777 PMCID: PMC10817476 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14010076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a frequently overlooked inflammatory disorder affecting the skin and mucous membranes of the vulva. With a propensity for atrophy, severe scarring, functional impairment, and malignant evolution, VLS is a disease that recurs frequently; early diagnosis, rapid treatment, and ongoing patient follow-up are essential. Potent topical corticosteroids (TCSs) are now widely recognized as the most effective treatment for achieving remission in VLS, but considering the potential complications of long-term treatment with potent TCSs, understanding the evolution of VLS during puberty becomes particularly crucial in determining the necessity for aggressive or more conservative therapeutic interventions. Emerging treatments, including PRP (platelet-rich plasma), stem cell therapy, and energy-based lasers like fractional CO2 and Nd-YAG, are being investigated to identify more effective VLS treatments than ultrapotent topical corticosteroids. However, more research is needed to assess the efficacy and safety of these new medicines. Topical clobetasol 0.05% ointment daily for 4-12 weeks is the gold standard for treating VLS. This article is a narrative review of the English-language medical literature from 2017 to November 2023, following three main sections concerning VLS: studies of the evolution amid pubertal hormonal changes; studies of the outcomes of personalized conventional therapies; and studies addressing the spectrum of innovative modalities for VLS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelina Popa
- Department of Dermatovenerology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (F.S.)
- Dermatology Department, “Elias” University Emergency Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Cristian Dumitrascu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Emergency Hospital of Bucharest, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Aida Petca
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Elias” Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Razvan-Cosmin Petca
- Department of Urology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Urology, ‘Prof. Dr. Th. Burghele’ Clinical Hospital, 050659 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florica Sandru
- Department of Dermatovenerology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.P.); (F.S.)
- Dermatology Department, “Elias” University Emergency Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
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Luo OD, Bose R, Bawazir MA, Thuraisingam T, Ghazawi FM. A Review of the Dermatologic Clinical Applications of Topical Photodynamic Therapy. J Cutan Med Surg 2024; 28:NP1. [PMID: 38243786 DOI: 10.1177/12034754231216969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Topical photodynamic therapy is a widely approved therapy for actinic keratoses and low-risk nonmelanoma skin cancers with a rapidly growing range of emerging indications for other cutaneous diseases. This review summarizes the best-available evidence to provide a clinical update for dermatologists on the approved and emerging indications of photodynamic therapy. The body of evidence suggests that photodynamic therapy is superior or noninferior to other available treatment modalities for actinic keratoses, low-risk basal cell carcinomas, Bowen's disease, skin field cancerization, chemoprevention of keratinocyte carcinomas in organ transplant recipients, photoaging, acne vulgaris, and cutaneous infections including verrucae, onychomycosis, and cutaneous leishmaniasis. There is emerging evidence that photodynamic therapy plays a role in the management of actinic cheilitis, early-stage mycosis fungoides, extramammary Paget disease, lichen sclerosis, and folliculitis decalvans but there are no comparative studies with other active treatment modalities. Common barriers to topical photodynamic therapy include procedural pain, costs, and the time required for treatment delivery. There is significant heterogeneity in the photodynamic therapy protocols reported in the literature, including different photosensitizers, light sources, number of treatments, time between treatments, and use of procedural analgesia. Topical photodynamic therapy should be considered in the management of a spectrum of inflammatory, neoplastic, and infectious dermatoses. However, more comparative research is required to determine its role in the treatment algorithm for these dermatologic conditions and more methodological research is required to optimize photodynamic therapy protocols to improve the tolerability of the procedure for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Owen Dan Luo
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Reetesh Bose
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Mohammed A Bawazir
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Thusanth Thuraisingam
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Feras M Ghazawi
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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De Luca DA, Papara C, Vorobyev A, Staiger H, Bieber K, Thaçi D, Ludwig RJ. Lichen sclerosus: The 2023 update. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1106318. [PMID: 36873861 PMCID: PMC9978401 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1106318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is an underdiagnosed inflammatory mucocutaneous condition affecting the anogenital areas. Postmenopausal women are predominantly affected and, to a lesser extent, men, prepubertal children, and adolescents. The etiology of LS is still unknown. Hormonal status, frequent trauma and autoimmune diseases are well-known associations for LS, yet infections do not seem to be clear risk factors. LS pathogenesis involves factors such as a genetic predisposition and an immune-mediated Th1-specific IFNγ-induced phenotype. Furthermore, there is a distinct expression of tissue remodeling associated genes as well as microRNAs. Oxidative stress with lipid and DNA peroxidation provides an enabling microenvironment to autoimmunity and carcinogenesis. Circulating IgG autoantibodies against the extracellular matrix protein 1 and hemidesmosome may contribute to the progression of LS or simply represent an epiphenomenon. The typical clinical picture includes chronic whitish atrophic patches along with itching and soreness in the vulvar, perianal and penile regions. In addition to genital scarring, and sexual and urinary dysfunction, LS may also lead to squamous cell carcinoma. Disseminated extragenital LS and oral LS are also reported. The diagnosis is usually clinical; however, a skin biopsy should be performed in case of an unclear clinical picture, treatment failure or suspicion of a neoplasm. The gold-standard therapy is the long-term application of ultrapotent or potent topical corticosteroids and, alternatively, topical calcineurin inhibitors such as pimecrolimus or tacrolimus. Collectively, LS is a common dermatological disease with a so far incompletely understood pathogenesis and only limited treatment options. To foster translational research in LS, we provide here an update on its clinical features, pathogenesis, diagnosis and (emerging) treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A De Luca
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Cristian Papara
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Artem Vorobyev
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Hernán Staiger
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Katja Bieber
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Diamant Thaçi
- Institute and Comprehensive Center Inflammation Medicine, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Ralf J Ludwig
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
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Kittigul L, Meephansan J, Sirithanabadeekul P, Hanvivattanakul S, Deenonpoe R, Yingmema W, Tantisantisom K, Thongma S, Rayanasukha Y, Boonkoom T, Adulyaritthikul P, Khanchaitit P. The efficacy of LED microneedle patch on hair growth in mice. Arch Dermatol Res 2022; 315:971-982. [PMID: 36416978 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-022-02476-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Light penetration depth in the scalp is a key limitation of low-level light therapy for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). A novel light emitting diode (LED) microneedle patch was designed to achieve greater efficacy by enhancing the percutaneous light delivery. The study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of this device on hair growth in mice. Thirty-five male C57BL/6 mice which their dorsal skin was split into upper and lower parts to receive either LED irradiation alone or LED irradiation with a microneedle patch. Red (629 nm), green (513 nm), and blue light (465 nm) at an energy dose of 0.2 J/cm2 were applied once daily for 28 days. Outcomes were evaluated weekly using digital photographs. Histopathological findings were assessed using a 6 mm punch biopsy. A significant increase in hair growth was observed in the green light, moderate in the red light, and the lowest in the blue light group. The addition of the microneedle patch to LED irradiation enhanced greater and faster anagen entry in all the groups. Histopathology showed an apparent increase in the number of hair follicles, collagen bundles in the dermis, angiogenesis, and mononuclear cell infiltration after treatment with the green-light LED microneedle patches. No serious adverse effects were observed during the experiment. Our study provides evidence that the newly developed green-light LED microneedle patch caused the optimal telogen-to-anagen transition and could lead to new approaches for AGA. Microneedle stimulation may aid percutaneous light delivery to the target hair follicle stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leelawat Kittigul
- Division of Dermatology, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus, Klong Luang, 12120, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Jitlada Meephansan
- Division of Dermatology, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus, Klong Luang, 12120, Pathum Thani, Thailand.
| | - Punyaphat Sirithanabadeekul
- Division of Dermatology, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus, Klong Luang, 12120, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Sirashat Hanvivattanakul
- Division of Dermatology, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University, Rangsit Campus, Klong Luang, 12120, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Raksawan Deenonpoe
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Werayut Yingmema
- Laboratory Animal Centers, Thammasat University, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Kittipong Tantisantisom
- National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), 111 Thailand Science Park, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Sattra Thongma
- National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), 111 Thailand Science Park, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Yossawat Rayanasukha
- National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), 111 Thailand Science Park, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Thitikorn Boonkoom
- National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), 111 Thailand Science Park, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Punyanuch Adulyaritthikul
- National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), 111 Thailand Science Park, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Paisan Khanchaitit
- National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), 111 Thailand Science Park, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, Thailand
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Dey A, Singhvi G, Puri A, Kesharwani P, Dubey SK. An insight into photodynamic therapy towards treating major dermatological conditions. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2022; 76:103751. [PMID: 36159728 PMCID: PMC9495279 DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2022.103751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT), as the name suggests is a light-based, non-invasive therapeutic treatment method that has garnered immense interest in the recent past for its efficacy in treating several pathological conditions. PDT has prominent use in the treatment of several dermatological conditions, which consequently have cosmetic benefits associated with it as PDT improves the overall appearance of the affected area. PDT is commonly used for repairing sun-damaged skin, providing skin rejuvenation, curbing pre-cancerous cells, treating conditions like acne, keratosis, skin-microbial infections, and cutaneous warts, etc. PDT mediates its action by generating oxygen species that are involved in bringing about immunomodulation, suppression of microbial load, wound-healing, lightening of scarring, etc. Although there are several challenges associated with PDT, the prominent ones being pain, erythema, insufficient delivery of the photosensitizing agent, and poor clinical outcomes, still PDT stands to be a promising approach with continuous efforts towards maximizing clinical efficacy while being cautious of the side effects and working towards lessening them. This article discusses the major skin-related conditions which can be treated or managed by employing PDT as a better or comparable alternative to conventional treatment approaches such that it also brings about aesthetic improvements thereof.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuradha Dey
- R&D Healthcare Division, Emami Ltd, 13, BT Road, Belgharia, Kolkata 700056, India
| | - Gautam Singhvi
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, Pilani Campus, Rajasthan, India-333031
| | - Anu Puri
- RNA Structure and Design Section, RNA Biology Laboratory (RBL), Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute — Frederick, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Prashant Kesharwani
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, 110062, India
- University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Sunil Kumar Dubey
- R&D Healthcare Division, Emami Ltd, 13, BT Road, Belgharia, Kolkata 700056, India
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Guo JQ, Chen SY, Chen XM, Lu JQ, Song Y, Liu HY, Hu LN, Zhu ZY. Clinical study on multi-focused laser in the treatment of vulvar lichen sclerosus. Front Surg 2022; 9:919135. [PMID: 36189386 PMCID: PMC9520200 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2022.919135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical effect of Multi-focused (MF) laser in the treatment of vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS).MethodsIn this single-center, randomized controlled trial, we compared the effect of fractionated MF laser with other treatments on patients with biopsy-proven VLS. Patients with VLS were enrolled in this study and randomly divided into three groups. Patients in the experimental group were treated with a CO2 laser, control group 1 was treated with radiofrequency, and control group 2 was treated topically with glucocorticoids and soaking with Chinese patent medicine. The pruritus degree, skin elasticity, skin color, lesion scope, and total score were compared before treatment, at one month after treatment, and three months after treatment.ResultsOne month after treatment, the pruritus degree, skin elasticity, skin color, lesion scope, and total score decreased in the experimental group, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). In control group 1, the differences in pruritus degree, skin color, and total score were statistically significant (P < 0.05), but the differences in skin elasticity and lesion scope were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). In control group 2, the differences in pruritus degree and total score were statistically significant (P < 0.05), but the differences in skin elasticity, skin color, and lesion scope were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). At one month after the end of treatment, the differences in pruritus degree, skin elasticity, skin color, lesion scope, and total score among the three groups were not statistically significant. At three months after the end of treatment, the differences in the scores of the five indicators were statistically significant.ConclusionFor the three treatment methods for VLS, topical corticosteroids + traditional Chinese medicine can quickly relieve itching symptoms in patients, but it cannot significantly improve skin elasticity, skin color, and lesion scope, and VLS easily relapses after treatment. Radiofrequency can improve itching symptoms and skin color but has poor effects on the change of skin elasticity and lesion scope. Multi-focused laser treatment can alleviate the degree of pruritus, improve skin color and elasticity, and narrow the lesion scope, and VLS will not relapse within three months after treatment.
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Bizoń M, Maślińska D, Sawicki W. Influence of Photodynamic Therapy on Lichen Sclerosus with Neoplastic Background. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11041100. [PMID: 35207373 PMCID: PMC8877107 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11041100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Lichen sclerosus is the most common nonmalignant vulvar disease with morbidity in postmenopausal age. The first line of treatment is corticosteroid therapy. In case of insufficiency, tacrolimus or pimecrolimus can be provided. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) can be used as alternative way of treatment while symptoms recurrent despite other methods. Methods: the analyzed population of 182 women with diagnosis of lichen sclerosus treated using PDT was divided into three groups: patients with neoplastic disease or intraepithelial neoplasia; those with a positive family history of neoplastic disease; and a control group with no neoplastic disease and no familial history of neoplastic diseases. Results: Reduction of vulvar changes was assessed in the whole vulva in the groups as 21.9%, 21.2% and 21.8%, respectively. The most frequent symptom, itching, was reported to decrease in all groups, 39.3%, 35.5% and 42.5%, respectively. Improvement of quality of life was assessed in 91.3% of the whole group, stabilization of lichen sclerosus in 7.1% and progression in 1.6%. Conclusions: Photodynamic therapy gives positive results in most cases. Improvement after PDT is observed in objective vulvoscopic assessment and in subjective patients’ opinions. Neoplastic disease in the past can influence the effectiveness of PDT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Bizoń
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warszawa, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-697-722-894
| | - Danuta Maślińska
- Department of General and Experimental Pathology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warszawa, Poland;
| | - Włodzimierz Sawicki
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warszawa, Poland;
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Gerkowicz A, Szczepanik-Kułak P, Krasowska D. Photodynamic Therapy in the Treatment of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: A Systematic Review of the Literature. J Clin Med 2021; 10:5491. [PMID: 34884193 PMCID: PMC8658411 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10235491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic inflammatory disease involving the genital skin and mucous membrane. Patients exhibit focal atrophy and destructive scarring, with an increased risk of malignant transformation. Due to objective symptoms as well as subjective complaints, patients with VLS experience emotional distress, lowered mood, and sexual dysfunction, which is reflected in impaired health-related quality of life. Thus, the necessity of implementing appropriate therapy at the earliest possible stage of the disease in order to avoid serious complications is highlighted. We presented the systematic review of available literature, performed with MEDLINE, Cinahl, Central, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. We identified a total of twenty relevant studies which indicate that photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a valuable therapeutic modality in the treatment of VLS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paulina Szczepanik-Kułak
- Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Paediatric Dermatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (A.G.); (D.K.)
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Corazza M, Schettini N, Zedde P, Borghi A. Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus from Pathophysiology to Therapeutic Approaches: Evidence and Prospects. Biomedicines 2021; 9:950. [PMID: 34440154 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9080950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic, distressing, inflammatory disease with an enormous impact on quality of life. Treatment goals are relieving symptoms, reversing signs and preventing anatomical changes. Despite the availability of numerous therapeutic options, treatment outcome may not be entirely satisfactory and a definitive cure does not exist. This may be due to the fact that the exact VLS etiopathogenesis remains unknown. The objectives of this paper were to review the most up-to-date knowledge on VLS etiopathogenesis and to consider the available therapies through the lens of a plausible pathogenetic model. An electronic search on both VLS etiopathogenesis and its treatment was performed using the National Library of Medicine PubMed database. Based on current knowledge, it is conceivable that various, heterogeneous environmental factors acting on a genetic background trigger an autoimmune, Th-1 response, which leads to a chronic inflammatory state. This, in turn, can determine both tissue and micro-vascular injury and activation of signaling pathways involved in fibroblast and collagen metabolism. This pathogenetic sequence may explain the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory treatments, mostly topical corticosteroids, in improving VLS clinical-pathological changes. Further deepening of the disease pathways will presumably allow key mediators to become new therapeutic targets and optimize the available treatments.
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Cios A, Ciepielak M, Szymański Ł, Lewicka A, Cierniak S, Stankiewicz W, Mendrycka M, Lewicki S. Effect of Different Wavelengths of Laser Irradiation on the Skin Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052437. [PMID: 33670977 PMCID: PMC7957604 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The invention of systems enabling the emission of waves of a certain length and intensity has revolutionized many areas of life, including medicine. Currently, the use of devices emitting laser light is not only an indispensable but also a necessary element of many diagnostic procedures. It also contributed to the development of new techniques for the treatment of diseases that are difficult to heal. The use of lasers in industry and medicine may be associated with a higher incidence of excessive radiation exposure, which can lead to injury to the body. The most exposed to laser irradiation is the skin tissue. The low dose laser irradiation is currently used for the treatment of various skin diseases. Therefore appropriate knowledge of the effects of lasers irradiation on the dermal cells’ metabolism is necessary. Here we present current knowledge on the clinical and molecular effects of irradiation of different wavelengths of light (ultraviolet (UV), blue, green, red, and infrared (IR) on the dermal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Cios
- Department of Microwave Safety, Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland; (A.C.); (M.C.); (W.S.)
| | - Martyna Ciepielak
- Department of Microwave Safety, Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland; (A.C.); (M.C.); (W.S.)
| | - Łukasz Szymański
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Science, Postępu 36A, 05-552 Magdalenka, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Aneta Lewicka
- Laboratory of Food and Nutrition Hygiene, Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Kozielska 4, 01-163 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Szczepan Cierniak
- Department of Patomorphology, Military Institute of Medicine, Szaserów 128, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Wanda Stankiewicz
- Department of Microwave Safety, Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland; (A.C.); (M.C.); (W.S.)
| | - Mariola Mendrycka
- Faculty of Medical Sciences and Health Sciences, Kazimierz Pulaski University of Technology and Humanities, 26-600 Radom, Poland;
| | - Sławomir Lewicki
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland;
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Abstract
A heavy-atom-free π-extended N-confused porphyrin is reported that is suitable for use as a photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy in both the green region and therapeutic window.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balaji Babu
- Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation
- Department of Chemistry
- Rhodes University
- Makhanda
- South Africa
| | - John Mack
- Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation
- Department of Chemistry
- Rhodes University
- Makhanda
- South Africa
| | - Tebello Nyokong
- Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation
- Department of Chemistry
- Rhodes University
- Makhanda
- South Africa
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Queirós C, Garrido PM, Maia Silva J, Filipe P. Photodynamic therapy in dermatology: Beyond current indications. Dermatol Ther 2020; 33:e13997. [PMID: 32654315 DOI: 10.1111/dth.13997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has long been used in dermatology as a therapeutic strategy for several malignant and premalignant conditions. Currently, it is approved in Europe for the treatment of actinic keratosis, squamous cell carcinoma in situ, and some forms of basal cell carcinoma, with favorable clearance rates associated with satisfying aesthetic results. Nonetheless, in the past few years, PDT has also demonstrated efficacy in many other conditions, including inflammatory and infectious dermatoses. These results, probably explained by its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and bactericidal effects, may lead to an expansion of PDT indications in the upcoming years. In this article, conditions where PDT may be useful are reviewed, thus highlighting the potential of this therapeutic modality for the dermatologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Queirós
- Serviço de Dermatologia, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Pedro Miguel Garrido
- Serviço de Dermatologia, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Maia Silva
- Serviço de Dermatologia, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal.,Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Paulo Filipe
- Serviço de Dermatologia, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal.,Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Monfrecola G, Megna M, Rovati C, Arisi M, Rossi M, Calzavara-Pinton I, Fabbrocini G, Calzavara-Pinton P. A Critical Reappraisal of Off-Label Use of Photodynamic Therapy for the Treatment of Non-Neoplastic Skin Conditions. Dermatology 2020; 237:262-276. [PMID: 32554971 DOI: 10.1159/000507926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the past 30 years, topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been investigated for the treatment of a broad spectrum of cosmetic, inflammatory, and infectious skin conditions with variable, and often contrasting, results. However, the non-expert clinician may be in difficulty evaluating these results because different sensitizers, concentrations, formulations, light sources, and irradiation protocols have been used. In addition, many of these studies have poor quality design being case reports and uncontrolled studies of few cases. SUMMARY With the aim to clarify the potential usefulness of PDT for the treatment of infectious and inflammatory skin diseases as well as selected cosmetic indications, we searched for randomized controlled clinical trials, non-randomized comparative studies, retrospective studies, and case series studies with a number of at least 10 patients, published since 1990. Later, we reappraised the results in order to give a simple critical overview. Key Messages: Evidence from the literature seems to strongly support the use of ALA- and MAL-PDT for the treatment of common skin diseases such as acne, warts, condylomata, and Leishmania skin infection and for photorejuvenation, i.e., the correction of selected cosmetic changes of aging and photoaging. For other disorders, the level of evidence and strength of recommendation are lower, and controlled randomized studies with prolonged follow-ups are necessary in order to assess the clinical usefulness and other potential advantages over current treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Monfrecola
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Matteo Megna
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Rovati
- Dermatology Department, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Gabriella Fabbrocini
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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14
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Abstract
Background: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an alternative treatment modality for vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) which is a chronic inflammatory mucosal condition. In literature, no consensus of optimal parameters of PDT for VLS is reached so far.Objectives: The aim of this narrative review is to develop a standardized treatment protocol for PDT in VLS.Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted to identify studies reporting on PDT in VLS and used treatment parameters, side-effects, and clinical outcomes were summarized.Results: Thirteen studies used 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) with concentrations of 20%, 10%, 5% and three studies used methyl aminolevulinate (MAL). Generally, the light source was red light (median 630 nm). Light dose varied between 9 and 180 J/cm2 and light intensity between 40 and 700 mW/cm2. Incubation period with the photosensitizer ranged from 2 to 6 h. All studies showed a substantial improvement in VLS-related pruritus, burning and pain.Conclusions: Based on a literature review, we suggest the following protocol for PDT in VLS: 5% 5-ALA as a photosensitizer applied for 3 h under occlusion before irradiation at the dose of 120 J/cm2 with red light (590-760 nm) and intensity of 204 mW/cm2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Declercq
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Canan Güvenç
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Petra De Haes
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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15
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Tampa M, Sarbu MI, Matei C, Mitran CI, Mitran MI, Caruntu C, Constantin C, Neagu M, Georgescu SR. Photodynamic therapy: A hot topic in dermato-oncology. Oncol Lett 2019; 17:4085-4093. [PMID: 30944601 PMCID: PMC6444307 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.9939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a modern, non-invasive therapeutic method used for the destruction of various cells and tissues. It requires the simultaneous presence of three components: a photosensitizer (PS), a light source and oxygen. Precancerous skin lesions are conditions associated with a high likelihood of malignant transformation to squamous cell carcinoma. Data available so far indicate that PDT is a promising treatment method which can be successfully employed in several medical fields including dermatology, urology, ophthalmology, pneumology, cardiology, dentistry and immunology. Numerous authors therefore have studied this technique in order to improve its efficacy. As a result, significant advancement has been achieved with regard to PSs and drug delivery systems. Substantial progress was also obtained with respect to PDT for the treatment of precancerous skin lesions, several authors focusing their efforts on the study of daylight-PDT and on identifying methods of decreasing technique-related pain. This review reports on the most recent findings in PDT, with emphasis on cutaneous precancerous lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mircea Tampa
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria-Isabela Sarbu
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Clara Matei
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | | | - Constantin Caruntu
- Department of Physiology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carolina Constantin
- Department of Immunology, ‘Victor Babes’, National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Neagu
- Department of Immunology, ‘Victor Babes’, National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona-Roxana Georgescu
- Department of Dermatology, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
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Prodromidou A, Chatziioannou E, Daskalakis G, Stergios K, Pergialiotis V. Photodynamic Therapy for Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus—A Systematic Review. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2018; 22:58-65. [DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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