Henry Ford Hospital Dermatology Experience with Levulan Kerastick and Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy

Background and Objectives: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with topical 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is becoming a more popular dermatologic procedure. Newer protocols have virtually eliminated any associated untoward effects. Phototoxicity, although rare, can still occur and requires aggressive post-therapy care. Recently, a new biorestorative skin care cream, containing human growth factors and cytokines, was used to treat 2 severe cases of PDT-associated phototoxicity. Materials and Methods: This paper describes 2 case reports of severe phototoxicity following ALA-PDT treatments. The novel skin care cream was utilized in both cases phototoxicity. Results: Complete resolution of the phototoxic reaction was seen, leaving both patients with normal skin texture and tone. Conclusions: This novel skin care cream may prove useful in wound healing following treatment with lasers and light sources or dermatologic surgery.