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5‐Aminolevulinic Acid Photodynamic Therapy: Where We Have Been and Where We Are Going

BACKGROUND Photodynamic therapy, utilizing the topical administration of 20% 5-aminolevulinic acid, has generated a great deal of interest in the dermatology community over the past several years. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this article is to review the history of photodynamic therapy in dermatology and to review recent new advances with this technology that will increase its appeal to all dermatologists. METHODS A literature review and results of new clinical trials with regards to photorejuvenation and acne vulgaris treatments with 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy are presented. RESULTS Short-contact, full-face 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy treatments with a variety of lasers and light sources have shown to be successful in treating all facets of photorejuvenation and the associated actinic keratoses as well as disorders of sebaceous glands, including acne vulgaris. The treatments are relatively pain-free, efficacious, and safe. They are also making already available laser/light source therapies work better for acne vulgaris and photorejuvenation. CONCLUSIONS The use of 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy with short-contact, full-face broad-application therapy is now able to bridge the world of medical and cosmetic dermatologic surgery. This therapy is available for all dermatologists to utilize in the care of their patients.