Silicon phthalocyanine (pc 4) photodynamic therapy is a safe modality for cutaneous neoplasms: Results of a phase 1 clinical trial

Abstract

Background Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive treatment for non-melanoma skin cancer. However, PDT systems currently used clinically have limitations such as pain and superficial tissue penetration. The silicon phthalocyanine Pc 4 is a second-generation photosensitizer with peak absorption in the far red at 675 nm. Objective To assess the safety and tolerability of topically applied Pc 4 followed by red light (Pc 4-PDT) in treating cutaneous neoplasms. Study Design/Materials and Methods Forty three adults with a diagnosis of neoplasms including actinic keratoses, Bowen's disease, squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, or mycosis fungoides were treated with a single administration of Pc 4-PDT and followed for 14 days. The study utilized a light and Pc 4 dose escalation design in sequential groups of three subjects each. Results Pc 4-PDT was well tolerated with no significant local toxicity or increased photosensitivity. It has promising biologic effects, particularly in mycosis fungoides where 14 of 35 subjects demonstrated a clinical response, which correlates with Pc 4-PDT-induced apoptosis, as measured by increased active caspase-3 in the treated skin lesions. Conclusions Pc 4-PDT is a safe and tolerable treatment modality that effectively triggers apoptosis in cutaneous neoplasms such as mycosis fungoides. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.