Photodynamic therapy has been widely investigated over the past two decades and is emerging as a promising therapeutic modality for skin cancers and several inflammatory diseases. This growing interest is based on the availability of a new simple, effective and safe regimen using the topical application of a pro-drug, 5-aminolevulinic acid, as well as on the development of new "second generation" photosensitizers, namely 5-aminolevulinic acid-esters, phthalocyanines, chlorins, porphycenes and hypericin. In contrast to hematoporphyrin derivatives, these compounds are characterized by short-lasting generalized skin photosensitivity. These dyes are available for either topical or systemic delivery and are well characterized. The basic principles of PDT is more complex than chemotherapy or other pharmacological modalities. PDT involves not only a drug but an otherwise harmless compound that is activated by visible light. The interaction of these two treatment components is PDT. The variability of these both components results in a complexity of the treatment that may disorient the clinician who does not have specific experience in this field. This book aims to focus experimental and clinical findings on PDT in order to attract and direct the attention of a growing number of dermatologists.

This book is the most up-to-date publication on fluorescence diagnostic (FDAP) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) methods used in dermatology. Both techniques are presently world wide introduced as standards for the delineation and the treatment of cutaneous precancerous stages and tumors, which show steadily increasing numbers due to e.g. more frequent sun exposure. Summarizing experiences on more than 5.000 treated patients, it offers a comprehensive information on every aspect of skin tumor detection and treatment. The main part of the book focuses on the clinical aspects giving detailed descriptions on skin tumor detection as well as photodynamic treatment of selected diseases (solar keratoses, basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, Bowen's disease, psoriasis lesions, etc.). The clinically oriented chapters are supplemented by practical guidelines for PDT and FDAP. The included atlas is comprised of 270 high quality color figures allowing daily use as a handbook.

Written by recognised experts, Photodynamic Therapy provides a comprehensive explanation of what PDT is and how it has developed as a technique.

"Sun Protection in Man" looks at the beneficial and harmful effects of solar radiation. The physiological consequences of sun exposure have been systematically studied starting at the end of the nineteenth century and we now have accumulated knowledge about how Caucasian and Asian skins reacts to solar radiation. The chemical effects of solar ultraviolet radiation have been analyzed with particular emphasis during the second half of the twentieth century. Research on micro-organisms has allowed us to understand the mechanisms of UV-induced mutagenesis and photosensitization. Studies with laboratory rodents have opened the path to the understanding of UV-induced immune-depression, carcinogenesis, photo-damage and photo-aging. The results of these studies have enabled other scientists to investigate the same phenomena in human organs such as the skin and the eye. UV radiation damages hair, as well. The present knowledge in these fields is summarized in some of the chapters of this monograph.Mass phenomenon in Europe with the generalization of summer vacations which were a consequence of social reforms introducing the concept of "paid vacations". This created a need for protection and opened a market for sunscreens. This monograph is concerned with sun protection as a whole and is not just "another book on sunscreens". Nonetheless, in these days of general concern, it is important to learn about the efficiency of sunscreens. Several authors discuss how to reduce the number of impinging photons and explain why sunscreens seem to offer less protection than expected. Guidelines are given on how to use sunscreens in everyday life, which are expressed rigorously though clearly, for access to the common reader.Our knowledge on the relationship between sun and humans is at the early stages of development. Industrial and commercial activities are concerned by the development of this knowledge, and rules have been and will be promulgated to guarantee efficacy and safety of sun-products. It is hoped that this monograph will be of interest to the scholar, the layman and the legislator.

This title in the PROCEDURES IN COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY SERIES presents up-to-the-minute, practical guidance on the hottest photodynamic therapy techniques shaping today's practice. Succinctly written and lavishly illustrated, it focuses on procedural how-to's and offer step-by-step advice on proper techniques, pitfalls, and tricks of the trade—so you can refine and hone your skills...and expand your surgical repertoire. You'll find current, to-the-point guidance on the cosmetic use of PDT—edited by a pioneer in the field, Dr. Mitchel P. Goldman. Implement the newest procedures into your practice immediately and confidently—with the outstanding guidance you'll find in this volume of the PROCEDURES IN COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY SERIES. Get the best results when performing PDT for skin diseases, skin cancer and HPV, and skin rejuvenation, especially in aging and sun-damaged skin —all in one concise, accessible volume. Visualize techniques clearly with a wealth of color illustrations and photographs that depict cases as they appear in practice. Know the costs for each light source, and get recommendations from the experts on which light source is best for your practice. Ensure the safety of your clients with post-photodynamic therapy care information sheets for patients. Implement the latest techniques for topical PDT for acne * photorejuvenation * fluorescence diagnosis * and medical uses of PDT.

This book provides a complete overview on the latest available technologies in dermatology, while discussing future trends of this ever-growing field. This handy guide provides clinicians and researchers with a clear understanding of the advantages and challenges of laser and imaging technologies in skin medicine today. It also includes a section on imaging techniques for the evaluation of skin tumors, with chapters devoted to dermoscopy, in vivo and ex vivo reflectance confocal microscopy, high frequency ultrasound, optical coherence tomography, and a closing part on latest approaches to wound management. Completed by over 200 clinical images, Current Technology in Practical Dermatology: Non-Invasive Imaging, Lasers and Ulcer Management is both a valuable tool for the inpatient dermatologist and for physicians, residents, and medical students in the field.

Photodynamic therapy is a proven effective treatment of actinically damaged skin cells, nonmelanoma skin cancers, and acne and other pilosebaceous conditions. As an agent for general facial rejuvenatin it has untapped potential. The current state of PDT therapy and future applications are discussed in detail in this exciting new volume. Throughout, the focus is on evidence-based clinical uses of PDT, including pretreatment regimens, avoidance and management of complications, and posttreatment suggestions.