The combination of photodynamic therapy and fractional CO_2 laser for oral leukoplakia: Case series

摘要

Oral leukoplakia (OL), a predominantly white change to the oral mucosa, is the most common potentially malignant lesion. Elimination of this condition, especially high risk OL, is advisable, even necessary as an attempt to avoid malignant transformation. Here we present three cases of OL successfully treated by ALA photodynamic therapy (PDT) following pretreatment with CO2 laser. After a series of one to three sessions the patients were monitored for 12 months. All lesions showed remission, but one recurred during follow-up. Side effects included mild edema, erosion and burning sensation. No severe side effects were observed. In summary, the combination of PDT and CO2 laser is safe and effective in the treatment of OL.