Can Urea 10% Promote Photosensitizer Uptake Before MAL-PDT for the Treatment of Facial Actinic Keratoses? Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Actinic keratoses (AKs) are precancerous lesions that may progress to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with methyl aminolevulinate (MAL) is an established treatment, often preceded by mechanical curettage to enhance photosensitizer penetration. However, curettage is associated with pain and discomfort, necessitating alternative pretreatment strategies, also applicable in daylight PDT.

Methods

Thirty-six patients with symmetrical facial AKs were randomized to receive MAL-PDT on two contralateral areas: one pretreated with a 10% urea-based keratolytic compound (UBC) for 14 days and the other untreated (control). Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) fluorescence, clinical outcomes, cosmetic results, and patient satisfaction were assessed. Statistical ana

SUBMITTER: Artelli GL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12585119 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature