Hematoporphyrin photodynamic therapy for treatment of pathological scar with ulceration: A case report

Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther. 2024 Oct:49:104315. doi: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2024.104315. Epub 2024 Aug 26.

Abstract

Pathological scars result from abnormal wound healing and represent a fibrotic process in the repair of skin injuries. Post-burn scars are prone to malignant transformation, especially when ulceration occurs, raising concerns for precancerous lesions. We report a case of a 56-year-old female with a 50-year history of a large burn scar on her left forearm. The scar developed non-healing ulceration with local pain and itching over the past three years. Treatment with hematoporphyrin photodynamic therapy (HpD-PDT) led to resolution of the ulceration, thinning of the scar tissue, and significant alleviation of pain and itching. After a five-year follow-up, there has been no recurrence of ulceration, suggesting that photodynamic therapy effectively promotes wound healing in scarred tissue with ulcerations.

Keywords: Cicatricial ulcer; Hematoporphyrine injection; Photodynamic therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Burns / complications
  • Burns / drug therapy
  • Cicatrix* / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Hematoporphyrins* / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Photochemotherapy* / methods
  • Photosensitizing Agents* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Photosensitizing Agents
  • Hematoporphyrins