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PurposeThis study assessed the safety and efficacy of transepithelial crosslinking (CXL) using femtosecond (FS) laser-machined epithelial microchannels (MCs) followed by UVA CXL compared to FS laser (NLO CXL) in rabbits.MethodsThe epithelium of 36 rabbits was machined to create 2- by 25-µm MCs at 400 MCs/mm2. Eyes were treated with 1% riboflavin (Rf) solution for 30 minutes, rinsed, and then crosslinked using UVA or NLO CXL. Rabbits were monitored by epithelial staining, optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging, and esthesiometry. After sacrifice at 2, 4, or 8 weeks, corneas were examined for collagen autofluorescence and immunohistochemistry.ResultsNLO CXL showed no epithelial damage compared to UVA CXL, which produced on average 23.89 ± 5.6 mm2 epithelial defects that healed by day 3. UVA CXL also produced loss of corneal sensitivity averaging 0.83 ± 0.24 cm force to elicit a blink response that persisted for 28 days and remained significantly lower than control or NLO CXL. OCT imaging detected the presence of a demarcation line only following UVA CXL but not NLO CXL.ConclusionsEven with improved transepithelial Rf penetration, UVA CXL resulted in severe epithelial damage, loss of corneal sensitivity, and delayed wound healing persisting for a month. When MCs were paired with NLO CXL, however, these issues were mostly negated. This suggests that MC NLO CXL can achieve a faster visual recovery without postoperative pain or risk of infection.Translational relevanceUVA CXL is a successful procedure, but there is a need for a transepithelial protocol. The combination of MCs and NLO CXL is able to keep the benefits of UVA CXL without causing epithelial damage.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising cancer treatment but has limitations due to its dependence on oxygen and high-power-density photoexcitation. Here, we report polymer-based organic photosensitizers (PSs) through rational PS skeleton design and precise side-chain engineering to generate •O2- and •OH under oxygen-free conditions using ultralow-power 808 nm photoexcitation for tumor-specific photodynamic ablation. The designed organic PS skeletons can generate electron-hole pairs to sensitize H2O into •O2- and •OH under oxygen-free conditions with 808 nm photoexcitation, achieving NIR-photoexcited and oxygen-independent •O2- and •OH production. Further, compared with commonly used alkyl side chains, glycol oligomer as the PS side chain mitigates electron-hole recombination and offers more H2O molecules around the electron-hole pairs generated from the hydrophobic PS skeletons, which can yield 4-fold stronger •O2- and •OH production, thus allowing an ultralow-power photoexcitation to yield high PDT effect. Finally, the feasibility of developing activatable PSs for tumor-specific photodynamic therapy in female mice is further demonstrated under 808 nm irradiation with an ultralow-power of 15 mW cm-2. The study not only provides further insights into the PDT mechanism but also offers a general design guideline to develop an oxygen-independent organic PS using ultralow-power NIR photoexcitation for tumor-specific PDT.

Difficulty in heating tumors with high spatial selectivity while protecting surrounding healthy tissues from thermal harm is a challenge for cancer photothermal treatment (PTT). To mitigate this problem, PTT mediated by photothermal agents (PTAs) has been established as a potential therapeutic technique to boost selectivity and reduce damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Various gold nanoparticles (AuNP) have been effectively utilized as PTAs, mainly using strategies to target cancerous tissue and increase selective thermal damage. Meanwhile, imaging can be used in tandem to monitor the AuNP distribution and guide the PTT. Mainly, the parameters impacting the induced temperature can be determined using simulation tools before treatment for effective PTT. However, accurate simulations can only be performed if the amount of AuNPs accumulated in the tumor is known. This study introduces Photo-Magnetic Imaging (PMI), which can appropriately recover the AuNP concentration to guide the PTT. Using multi-wavelength measurements, PMI can provide AuNP concentration based on their distinct absorption spectra. Tissue-simulating phantom studies are conducted to demonstrate the potential of PMI in recovering AuNP concentration for PTT planning. The recovered AuNP concentration is used to model the temperature increase accurately in a small inclusion representing tumor using a multiphysics solver that takes into account the light propagation and heat diffusion in turbid media.

The study aimed to assess the impact of combining potassium iodide (KI) with methylene blue (MB) in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) within an oral biofilm formed in situ. A single-phase, 14 days in situ study involved 21 volunteers, who wore a palatal appliance with 8 bovine dentin slabs. These slabs were exposed to a 20% sucrose solution 8 times a day, simulating a high cariogenic challenge. Following the intraoral phase, the biofilms formed on the slabs were randomly assigned to the treatments: C (0.9% NaCl); CHX (0.2% chlorhexidine); KI (75 mM KI); MBKI (0.005% MB + 75 mM KI); L (0.9% NaCl + red laser 660 nm, 18 J, 180 s); LMB (0.005% MB + laser); LKI (75 mM KI + laser); LMBKI (0.005% MB + 75 mM KI + laser). The treated biofilms were collected, diluted, and incubated to assess cell viability (CFU/mL) for total microorganisms, total lactobacilli, total streptococci, and mutans streptococci. Data were subjected to analysis using the Friedman test, followed by the Dunn test (α = 0.05). LMBKI group exhibited a noteworthy decrease in the viability of all microorganisms in comparison to groups C, KI, MBKI, MB, L, LMB, and LKI (p < 0.0001), and demonstrated a comparable reduction to the CHX group (p > 0.99). The combination of KI with MB in aPDT may be advocated as a non-invasive technique for diminishing the viability of polymicrobial oral biofilms, thereby aiding in the management of dental diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Statement of the Problem: Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is a protocol proposed for reduction of bacterial load in deep dentin caries in primary and permanent dentitions. However, considering the difference in the morphology of dentinal tubules in primary and permanent teeth, the effect of this treatment may be different on the two dentition types. Purpose: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the effect of type of dentition as a determinant of microbial load reduction by aPDT in deep dentin caries. Materials and Method: An electronic search was conducted in Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, Medline, and Embase databases, from the first record until April 30, 2022. After article screening by three reviewers, seven studies were included in this meta-analysis. The mean log of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) count, Lactobacillus spp. count, and the entire bacteria in the cavity before and after aPDT was calculated with 95% confidence interval (CI), and compared between the two groups of primary and permanent teeth by the random effect model. The I² test was applied to assess the heterogeneity of the findings. Publication bias was evaluated by visual examination of the funnel-plot symmetry. Results: Of 7 retrieved articles, analysis of 3 studies on permanent teeth showed that aPDT caused a significant reduction in total bacterial count in the cavity [SMD: 0.64, 95% CI:(0.31, 0.96), p= 0.0001), S. mutans count [SMD: 0.92, 95% CI:(0.58, 1.25), p< 0.0001], and Lactobacillus spp. [SMD:1.1, 95% CI:(0.76, 1.45), p< 0.00001)]. Analysis of the remaining 4 studies on primary teeth indicated that aPDT had a significant effect only on S. mutans count [SMD: 0.60, 95% CI:(0.23, 0.97), p= 0.001), and its effect on total bacterial count of the cavity [SMD: 0. 90, 95% CI:(-0.02, 1.82), p= 0.05] and Lactobacillus spp. [SMD: 0.18, 95% CI:(-0. 29, 0.64), p= 0.45)] was not significant. Conclusion: The results showed that aPDT could serve as an effective adjunct for reduction of microbial load in permanent teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an important causative agent of bacterial keratitis. This study investigates the antibacterial effect of photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT) with the chlorin derivative TONS504 (TONS504-PACT) and a blue light-emitting diode (LED) on P. aeruginosa in vitro. It also explores the synergistic effects of combining TONS504-PACT with EDTA, and compares the antibacterial effects of TONS504-PACT using blue light with those of previously reported red light. Methods To evaluate the antibacterial effects of TONS504-PACT using blue light on P. aeruginosa, PACT with TONS504 (0-100 mg/L) was applied using a 405 nm LED at 0-30 J/cm² to P. aeruginosa (107-8 CFU/mL). The antibacterial effects were assessed by calculating the survival fraction. Subsequently, to compare the effects of TONS504-PACT using blue light with those of using red light, PACT with TONS504 (10 or 100 mg/L) was conducted using a 405 or 660 nm LED at 30 J/cm² and evaluated in the same manner. Finally, to investigate the synergistic antibacterial effects of TONS504-PACT with EDTA, PACT with TONS504 (0-100 mg/L) was applied using a 405 nm LED at 5 J/cm², both with and without EDTA (0.015 M), and its antibacterial effects were similarly assessed. Results TONS504-PACT using blue light decreased the survival of P. aeruginosa, depending on the light intensity. The greatest antibacterial effect was observed at 10 mg/L and 30 J/cm², showing a survival fraction of 3.5 × 10-5. TONS504-PACT demonstrated a significantly greater antibacterial effect using blue light than that demonstrated using red light at 10 mg/L, though not at 100 mg/L. The combination of TONS504-PACT using blue light with EDTA significantly enhanced antibacterial effects at all concentrations. Conclusion These findings confirm the effectiveness of TONS504-PACT using blue light against P. aeruginosa and suggest its potential as a treatment for bacterial keratitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unique histiocytic entity of indeterminate dendritic cell tumor (IDCT) is known to cause diagnostic conundrum and treatment dilemmas with no published consensus on either. We report a rare case of cutaneous IDCT with ETV3::NOAC2 rearrangement providing further evidence to its association with this condition. With its ease of administration and minimal side effects, PUVA therapy can be successfully used to treat cutaneous forms of IDCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The novel nanomaterials PNA-TN (PN) and PNA-TN-Dox (PND) have been shown to have strong inhibitory effects on breast cancer; however, it is unclear whether PN and PND have anti-head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) activity, and their potential mechanisms of activity are unknown. So, our study aims to explore the therapeutic effects of PN and PND on HNSCC and their possible mechanisms. Methods: We used a series of phenotypic research to evaluate the effects of PN + Laser (L) and PND + L on the biological function of HNSCC cells in vitro and in vivo. We subsequently used mechanism research to examine changes in mRNA and protein expression related to apoptosis, epithelial‒mesenchymal transition (EMT), and the JNK signalling pathway. Results: Our study revealed that PN and PND have strong inhibitory effects on HNSCC cells both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, PN and PND significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT ability of HNSCC cells and promoted apoptosis; the inhibitory effect in the PND + L group was significantly greater than that in the PN + L group. In vivo, both treatments led to significant reductions in tumour volume and weight. Notably, the tumour volume and weight in the PND + L group were significantly lower than those in the PN + L group. Mechanism research confirmed that PN + L activated the expression of apoptosis-related proteins and inhibited the expression of EMT-related proteins via the JNK pathway. Furthermore, the anti-HNSCC effect of PN + L was blocked after the use of a JNK pathway inhibitor. Conclusion: Treatment with PN + L or PND + L significantly inhibited the malignant progress of HNSCC cells, and the therapeutic effect of PND + L was significantly stronger than that of PN + L. The JNK signalling pathway is a key mechanism by which PN exerts its anti-HNSCC activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach owing to its non-invasive nature and minimal toxicity. PDT involves the administration of a photosensitizing agent (PS), which, upon light activation, induces a photodynamic reaction (PDR), leading to targeted cell destruction. However, developing resistance to PDT poses a significant challenge to its effectiveness. Various factors, including properties and administration of PSs, mediate this resistance. Despite the widespread use of substances like 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) and protoporphyrin, their efficacy is limited due to restricted tumor penetration and a lack of tumor targeting. To address these limitations, nano-delivery techniques and newer PSs like Aza-BODIPY and its derivatives, which offer enhanced tissue penetration, are being explored. In this paper, we provide an overview of resistance mechanisms in PDT and discuss novel methods, substances, and technologies to overcome resistance to improve clinical outcomes in tumor treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trends in phototherapy utilization in the context of new therapeutics have not been evaluated. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate phototherapy utilization, payments, and geographic distribution for Medicare beneficiaries from 2000 to 2021. Patients/Methods: A longitudinal analysis of the Medicare Part B National Summary Data Files was conducted to obtain phototherapy utilization and payment amounts. Medicare Physician & Other Practitioners by Provider and Service datasets were used to determine provider type and geographic distribution. Results: Between 2000 and 2021, total Medicare phototherapy volume increased from 335,152 to 621,850, correlating with a 3.0% annual growth rate (5.0% between 2000 and 2015, −3.1% between 2016 and 2021). Ultraviolet B phototherapy represented the majority of use, rising from 68.1% in 2000 to 78.0% in 2021. Psoralens plus ultraviolet A decreased by 11.3% annually, while laser treatments increased by 17.3%. Between 2013 and 2021, the number of clinics offering phototherapy declined; facilities were available in only 9.9% of counties, mainly clustered along both coasts and east of the Mississippi. Conclusions: Overall, phototherapy continues to be an important therapeutic option. Limited access in non‐urban areas remains a significant challenge, and further work is necessary to both evaluate this impact and reduce disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral leukoplakia (OLK) is the most representative oral potentially malignant disorder, with a high risk of malignant transformation and unclear mechanisms of occurrence. Recently, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has exhibited great potential in the treatment of OLK. However, the efficacy of PDT is difficult to predict and varies from person to person. Ferroptosis-related pathways are upregulated in many cancers, and ferroptosis induction is considered to be a potential synergistic strategy for various antitumor therapies, but its role in OLK treatment remains unclear. This study aimed to determine whether ferroptosis induction can enhance the efficacy of PDT in OLK treatment. Our study revealed that solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), a component of a crucial amino acid transporter and a key negative regulator of ferroptosis, was found to be highly expressed in OLK patients with no response to PDT. 5-Aminolevulinic acid (ALA)-PDT is known to cause apoptosis and necrosis, but ferroptosis also occurred under ALA-PDT in OLK cells in our study. Using erastin to induce ferroptosis enhanced the efficacy of ALA-PDT on OLK cells by disrupting the antioxidant system and further elevating intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, leading to increased apoptosis. Furthermore, this combined modality also enhanced the efficacy of ALA-PDT on 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO)–induced OLK lesions in mice. In summary, ferroptosis induction may serve as a potential strategy to enhance the efficacy of ALA-PDT for OLK treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD) develops after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation, when immune cells from a non-identical donor initiate an immune reaction against the transplant recipient. Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) can be used in combination with prednisone in steroid-resistant cGVHD. In this study, the effect of ECP use on survival in cGVHD was examined. Patients and Methods: Twenty-six patients who were followed up in the adult Hematology Clinic of Inonu University Turgut Ozal Medical Center for cGVHD were included in the study. Stem cell transplantation and ECP application parameters that may affect the survival of the patients were examined. Results: The degree of involvement in cGVHD affects survival. Involvements with clinical and laboratory scores of 2 and above according to the National Institutes of Health consensus criteria, significantly reduced survival. The development time of cGVHD was found to be associated with survival, and that it had a positive impact on survival, especially when the disease developed after 220 days after the transplantation. It was observed that steroid dose taken during ECP, patient age and cGVHD prophylaxis used affected survival. Conclusion: The use of ECP may be effective in survival, especially, in patients who develop cGVHD, 220 days after allogeneic transplantation. Concurrent use of steroids with ECP affects survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) remains the cornerstone in the treatment of high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), effectively preventing recurrence and progression. Unfortunately, a significant proportion of patients are classified as BCG-unresponsive, and there have been no definite alternative treatments for these disease group except for radical cystectomy, which is still challenging and sometimes not applicable. Therefore, there has been a need for alternative bladder-preserving treatments for patients who desire a bladder-sparing approach or are too frail for major surgery. Intravesical therapies, such as gemcitabine, mitomycin C and docetaxel, are mostly studied approaches, showing some promising results. However, no definitive conclusion has be drawn because of the heterogeneity of the studies and protocols and the limited number of patients enrolled in most of these studies. Immunotherapy and anti-inflammatory agents, though promising, require further validation through ongoing clinical trials to ensure their safety and efficacy. Gene therapy is also being explored, though it is in its early stages, with challenges in gene delivery and immune regulation still to be addressed. Photodynamic therapy and hyperthermia, particularly in combination with other treatments like intravesical chemotherapy, have shown potential in improving outcomes for BCG-unresponsive patients, though they are not yet considered first-line treatments. While these novel approaches hold promise, more robust data and clinical trial results are necessary to guide treatment protocols. In conclusion, ongoing research and clinical trials will continue to shape the future of NMIBC management, with the aim of providing more effective and bladder-preserving options for patients.

Abstract Background The novel nanomaterials PNA-TN (PN) and PNA-TN-Dox (PND) have been shown to have strong inhibitory effects on breast cancer; however, it is unclear whether PN and PND have anti-head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) activity, and their potential mechanisms of activity are unknown. So, our study aims to explore the therapeutic effects of PN and PND on HNSCC and their possible mechanisms. Methods We used a series of phenotypic research to evaluate the effects of PN + Laser (L) and PND + L on the biological function of HNSCC cells in vitro and in vivo. We subsequently used mechanism research to examine changes in mRNA and protein expression related to apoptosis, epithelial‒mesenchymal transition (EMT), and the JNK signalling pathway. Results Our study revealed that PN and PND have strong inhibitory effects on HNSCC cells both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, PN and PND significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT ability of HNSCC cells and promoted apoptosis; the inhibitory effect in the PND + L group was significantly greater than that in the PN + L group. In vivo, both treatments led to significant reductions in tumour volume and weight. Notably, the tumour volume and weight in the PND + L group were significantly lower than those in the PN + L group. Mechanism research confirmed that PN + L activated the expression of apoptosis-related proteins and inhibited the expression of EMT-related proteins via the JNK pathway. Furthermore, the anti-HNSCC effect of PN + L was blocked after the use of a JNK pathway inhibitor. Conclusion Treatment with PN + L or PND + L significantly inhibited the malignant progress of HNSCC cells, and the therapeutic effect of PND + L was significantly stronger than that of PN + L. The JNK signalling pathway is a key mechanism by which PN exerts its anti-HNSCC activity.

Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the local effect of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) as adjunctive treatment for Grade C periodontitis in molars teeth. Method and materials: Thirty-eight molar teeth from 11 patients were included in this split-mouth randomized clinical trial. The teeth were randomly divided into two groups (n = 19 each) that were submitted to conventional scaling and root planing in addition to aPDT (test group) and to scaling and root planing in addition to aPDT simulation (control group). The following periodontal parameters were obtained prior to treatment (baseline) and at 3 months after the intervention: bleeding on probing, probing depth, gingival recession, clinical attachment level, and furcation level. A 5% significance level was adopted in the statistical analysis. Results: Both groups exhibited improvement in the clinical parameters (P < .001). However, the reductions in bleeding on probing and probing depth were greater in the test group (P < .001). There were no significant differences in the other clinical parameters between groups (P ≥ .130). Conclusions: Molar teeth treated with aPDT and scaling and root planing showed superior clinical improvement compared to those submitted only to scaling and root planing. aPDT may be used as adjunctive treatment for Grade C periodontitis affecting molar teeth since it seems to improve the clinical response to conventional debridement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) is a main pro-inflammatory cytokine that is used for the assessment of treatment efficacy in periodontitis. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the effect of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on Stage III–IV (severe) periodontitis-induced local IL-1β. This review study was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis statement and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024522546). Electronic and manual search of the literature was conducted in four databases for English articles from the first record up until June 30, 2022 comparing the effects of aPDT versus conventional scaling and root planing on IL-1β levels at different follow-up times. The mean gingival crevicular fluid level of IL-1β with 95% confidence interval (CI) was pooled using the random effect model. The I2 statistics were applied to analyze the heterogeneity of the findings. The risk of bias (RoB) was analyzed using the revised Cochrane RoB. Analysis of 11 retrieved studies revealed that after the application of aPDT, a significant reduction in IL-1β level occurred at 1–2 (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 0.29, 95% CI: −0.57–1.15; P = 0.0002), 4–6 (SMD: 0.53; 95% CI: −0.36–1.42; P < 00001), and 12–13 (SMD: 1.04; 95% CI: −0.22–2.3; P < 0.00001) follow-up weeks. The application of aPDT can serve as an effective adjunctive therapy for the treatment of Stage III–IV periodontitis. Although the results of this meta-analysis showed that increasing the session frequency of aPDT had a higher effect size, further studies without the limitations of the existing studies are required to confirm the present results.

This article provides an overview of systemic treatment options for psoriasis in adults, including nonbiologic and biologic therapies available in Australia. It also discusses the role of general practitioners in managing the condition and provides information on the safety and considerations of psoriasis treatments for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The text covers various systemic treatments, their dosages, effectiveness, and potential side effects. It concludes by stating that newer biologics are preferred over TNF-alpha inhibitors. Another document discusses the use of biologic and non-biologic treatments for moderate to severe psoriasis, including interleukin inhibitors and the importance of immunosuppressive screening. It mentions the potential use of Janus kinase inhibitors in the future and the role of general practitioners in managing psoriasis and its complications. Lastly, a document serves as an advertisement for an online CPD journal program on psoriasis, encouraging readers to participate to earn CPD hours. It includes a list of references related to the management and treatment of psoriasis with biologics and other systemic treatment options for adults. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the antimicrobial efficacy of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) using natural photosensitizers (curcumin, riboflavin, and phycocyanin) and light-emitting diode (LED) irradiation against multispecies biofilms in an acrylic denture base model. Materials and Methods: Forty-five acrylic specimens were fabricated using heat-curing acrylic resin. The specimens were then infected with a mixed culture of bacterial and fungal species (including Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sanguinis, Candida albicans, and Candida glabrata) for 4 days. The acrylic discs were divided into nine groups, with each group containing five discs: control, 0.2% chlorhexidine, 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, curcumin, riboflavin, phycocyanin alone or along with LED. After treatment, the number of colony-forming units (CFUs) per milliliter was counted. In addition, the extent of biofilm degradation was assessed using the crystal violet staining method and scanning electron microscopy. Results: All experimental groups exhibited a significant reduction in colony numbers for both bacterial and fungal species compared to the control (p < 0.001). The PDT groups exhibited a statistically significant reduction in colony counts for both bacteria and fungi compared to the photosensitizer-only groups. Conclusions: The results of this in vitro study show that PDT with natural photosensitizers and LED devices can effectively reduce the viability and eradicate the biofilm of microorganisms responsible for causing denture infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cutaneous graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) is a common complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Phototherapy has been used to treat cutaneous GVHD, but data on its safety and efficacy are sparse. Aim: Review the current medical literature regarding the efficacy, dosing, and safety of various types of phototherapies for the treatment of cutaneous GVHD. Methods: A systematic review of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and ClinicalTrials databases was performed. Publications were screened according to the PRISMA guidelines. Exclusion criteria comprised case reports and case series reporting less than five patients, review articles, and articles not published in English. Results: A total of 28/1304 (2.5%) studies were included. Fifteen studies (n = 267 patients) focused on psoralen and ultraviolet (UV) A (PUVA), in which 65.5% of patients received concomitantly other systemic treatments. The response rate was 89.9%, with a mean of 33.2 treatments. Adverse events were recorded in 54% but were mainly mild. Eight studies, encompassing 95 patients, focused on narrow‐band (NB) UVB. A response was observed in 94%, with a mean number of 26 treatments and 8.6% adverse effects. UVA1 was reported in six studies (n = 132 patients). A response was recorded in 89.3% with a mean of 26.2 treatments. Adverse events were noted in 70.1%, with a discontinuation rate of 10.9%. It should be noted that adverse events were recorded during the follow‐up period of the studies, which varied significantly, ranging from no follow‐up to 31 months. Conclusions: Current data regarding the use of phototherapy for the treatment of cutaneous GVHD are based on retrospective studies and case series. The present report advocates the use of one of the three modalities of phototherapy as an effective and safe adjunctive treatment for cutaneous GVHD, especially NB UVB phototherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Peri‐implantitis poses a significant challenge in dental implantology due to its potential to result in the loss of supporting tissue around dental implants. Surgical reconstruction is often recommended for intrabony defects, accompanied by various adjunctive therapies, such as antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT), for bacterial decontamination. However, the long‐term efficacy of such treatments remains unclear. Methods: This clinical report presents a case of peri‐implantitis management in a healthy 55‐year‐old male using guided bone regeneration principles and surface decontamination via aPDT. The patient exhibited peri‐implantitis with probing pocket depths (PPD) of 7 mm at buccal sites, 5 mm at palatal sites, and significant bone loss around implant #12. The reconstructive approach involved preservation of the existing implant and following a non‐submerged healing protocol. The surgical phase included meticulous debridement, chemical detoxification with hydrogen peroxide, and aPDT using a 670 nm diode laser with methylene blue as the photosensitizer. Xenogenic bone graft and a resorbable collagen membrane were applied and the patient was followed up to through a 5‐year period. Results: Postsurgery the patient exhibited normal healing, and long‐term follow‐up at 5 years showed reduced PPD (2 mm buccally, 3 mm mid‐palatally), complete intrabony defect fill, and stable bone levels, indicating successful treatment. Conclusions: This case report demonstrates the potential long‐term success of a reconstructive approach with adjunctive aPDT in peri‐implantitis management. However, it highlights the need for standardized protocols and further clinical trials to establish the clinical benefits of aPDT in surgical reconstruction of peri‐implantitis defects, serving as valuable pilot data for future research. Key points: Why is this case new information?Provides a rare 5‐year insight into peri‐implantitis intrabony defect reconstruction, offering extended success and outcomes not frequently documented.Demonstrates the efficacy of aPDT with a 670‐nm diode laser in achieving successful long‐term outcomes, contributing valuable evidence to existing literature.Keys to successful management of this case: Success involves initial non‐surgical debridement followed by a reconstructive strategy, incorporating guided bone regeneration and surface decontamination via aPDT.Long‐term success hinges on patient compliance with routine oral hygiene, emphasizing the importance of adherence to preventive measures post‐reconstruction to minimize recurrence risk.What are the primary limitations to success in this case?Variability in photosensitizer uptake, and potential risks such as tissue damage and bacterial resistance pose challenges to the effectiveness of aPDT.The existing literature on aPDT in peri‐implantitis treatment lacks standardization in methodology, laser parameters, and follow‐up durations, making it challenging to establish a universally accepted protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Psoriasis is a chronic systemic disorder with ocular involvement. Objectives To evaluate the risk of glaucoma among patients with psoriasis. Methods Participants in this cohort study were selected based on Chang Gung Research Database from 1 January 2003 to 31 December 2012. Follow-up ended on 31 December 2017. The participants in the control group were matched with the psoriasis group by sex, age and index date with a 4 : 1 ratio. The hazard ratios of glaucoma were estimated using Cox regression analysis. We also evaluated the relationship between the risk of glaucoma and systemic therapies as well as phototherapy and topical corticosteroid in patients with psoriasis. Results In total, 6682 patients with psoriasis and 26 728 matched controls were enrolled. The study population was composed mainly of males accounting for 64.2% (21 445/33 410) of the study population. The psoriasis group had higher incidence rates than the control group for glaucoma (adjusted hazard ratio 1.405, 95% confidence interval, 1.051–1.879). Patients with psoriasis receiving psoralen–ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy for > 200 sessions had an increased risk of glaucoma. Conclusions Patients with psoriasis had an increased risk of glaucoma. Long-term PUVA therapy raised the risk of glaucoma in people with psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses psoriasis with a brief overview of the various types. It considers the symptoms, aetiology and treatment options and hopes to give nurses and non-medical prescribers more confidence in recognising and treating this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitiligo is a common acquired disease of pigment loss. In lesions recalcitrant to non-invasive treatment, transplantation of cultured autologous melanocytes is an emerging choice. Conventionally, the recipient site is often prepared by laser-mediated or mechanical dermabrasion. Such preparation procedures have disadvantages including prolonged transplantation duration, long period for reepithelialization and potential scarring. We propose a method of preparing recipient sites by psoralen and controlled ultraviolet A (PUVA)-induced blistering followed by transplanting suspended melanocytes. We introduced this method in 10 patients with segmental vitiligo on their recipient site 3 to 5 days before transplantation and blistering developed in 2 to 3 days afterwards. On the day of transplantation, the blister roof could be peeled off easily without bleeding and the recipient site preparation could be completed in 20 min. The recipient site became reepithelialized within 1 week. Progressive repigmentation was observed for up to 6 months, with an average of 65.06% repigmentation in the recipient site without scarring at the end of follow-up. Hence, preparation of the recipient site by controlled PUVA-induced sunburn-like blistering can potentially facilitate melanocyte transplantation and prevent scarring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Purpose: Interferon (IFN)‐a is often used in combination with psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) in patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) refractory to skin—targeted therapies in early or advanced stages. The main objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of combined PUVA and low‐dose IFN‐α‐2a therapy in patients with early‐ and advanced‐stage MF. Methods: Sixty‐eight patients who received a combination of PUVA twice or thrice a week and INF‐a 3 MU thrice a week for at least 3 months were reviewed retrospectively. The treatment response was evaluated as complete remission (CR), partial remission, stable disease, or progression. Results: At the initiation, the majority of patients (66.2%) had early‐stage disease. In 27.9% of cases, this was the initial treatment administered following the diagnosis of MF. The median duration of combination therapy was 11 months. Complete remission was achieved in 45.6% of the patients with an overall response rate of 60.3%. The mean duration of response was 5 months. Complete remission was statistically significantly higher in early‐stage patients (p <.05). No statistically significant correlation was observed between CR and gender, histopathological features, or laboratory parameters. In patients with CR, 80% experienced relapse, significantly higher in early‐stage patients (p <.05). However, there was no significant difference in disease‐free survival between early and advanced stages (p >.05). Conclusions: The study results indicated that PUVA + low‐dose INF‐a combination therapy was more effective in the early stage than in the advanced stage. Additionally, there was a high relapse rate after the cessation of treatment in patients who achieved CR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a gram-negative bacterium extremely relevant in the context of public health, being involved in the development of several diseases worldwide. The main treatment available for infections caused by E. coli is the use of antibiotics. However, several strains of this bacterium have shown resistance to available antibiotics, necessitating the development of alternative treatment methodologies. In this scenario, Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy (aPDT) emerges as an excellent viable alternative to antibiotic use. This study aimed to standardize protocols based on aPDT utilizing curcumin as photosensitizer activated by blue LED light for the control of E. coli in vitro. Curcumin solutions of 60, 80, and 100 μg mL-1 were made and photoactivated by blue LED light with fluencies of 6.6, 13.2, and 19.8 J cm-2. E. coli (ATCC® 25922 ™) was cultured for 24 hours at 37 °C. Bacterial suspensions of 1.5 x 106 CFU mL-1 were exposed to aPDT treatments. Control groups were established for each light dose and curcumin concentration. Protocols using 80 and 100 μg mL-1 curcumin solution with19.8 J cm-2 irradiation effectively inhibited bacterial growth, suggesting significant antibacterial activity (p-value < 0.05), and are recommended for this purpose.

BackgroundChemotherapy has had disappointing results in the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). This is in part due to limited systemic drug penetration through the blood-brain barrier. This limitation can be overcome by implantation of drug-loaded hydrogels, such as fibrin glue (FG), directly into the tumor resection cavity. Photochemical internalization (PCI) has been shown to enhance the efficacy of a large number of chemotherapeutic agents, including bleomycin (BLM). This study examined the ability of loaded FG to release BLM and photosensitizer to enable PCI-induced growth inhibition of glioma spheroids in vitro.Materials and methodsFG layers, loaded with drug and photosensitizer, were formed in wells of a 24-well plate. Supernatants covering the FG layers were harvested after 48 h. F98 glioma spheroids were co-incubated with harvested supernatants for 24 h, followed by light exposure. Spheroid growth was monitored for an additional 14 days.Results100% of the drug bleomycin and 90% of the photosensitizer (AlPcS2a) was released from the FG over a 48 h interval. Spheroid growth was significantly inhibited or completely suppressed by PCI of released drug and photosensitizer in many of the concentration combinations tested. PCI-induced growth inhibition increased with increasing light levels.ConclusionsThe results demonstrate that both drug and photosensitizer were loaded into and released in a non-degraded form for an extended time period. The growth inhibition caused by FG-released BLM was significantly enhanced by FG-released AlPcS2a-mediated PCI.

Simple Summary: Sézary syndrome (SS) is a rare and aggressive form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Despite various treatments, it remains incurable, with a median survival of only 2.1 years. This retrospective study of 17 SS patients in West Sweden from 2012 to 2024 aimed to understand demographic characteristics, treatment effectiveness, and disease progression. Only 35% of patients showed the classic symptoms at diagnosis, indicating the need for personalized diagnostic approaches. Different treatment modalities were used, but combination therapy showed advantages in median survival over monotherapies. Notably, triple therapy involving retinoids, interferon alpha, and extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) exhibited the longest median time to the next treatment, at 14.1 months. However, early initiation of ECP did not improve outcomes. This study underscores the complexity of SS, emphasizes the urgent need for more effective treatments, and highlights the importance of future prospective research in optimizing treatment strategies. Sézary syndrome (SS) is a rare primary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma variant. Despite various treatment options, it remains incurable, with a poor prognosis. There is an urgent need for additional descriptive research to enhance our understanding and treatment of SS. The aim of this retrospective register-based study was to outline patients' demographic characteristics; investigate the clinical, histopathological, and molecular findings; and assess treatment effectiveness with a focus on time to next treatment (TTNT) and disease progression. Data on 17 patients with SS were obtained from the primary cutaneous lymphoma register in West Sweden between 2012 and 2024. The results revealed that not all patients exhibited the classical triad of symptoms at diagnosis, emphasizing the need for personalized diagnostic approaches. The median survival was only 2.1 years, which reflects the aggressive nature of SS. The longest median TTNT was observed in triple therapy involving retinoids, interferon alpha, and extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP). There was no significant difference in TTNT between various lines of treatment. Early initiation of ECP treatment did not result in improved outcomes. This study highlights the importance of combination therapy for improved outcomes and underscores the need for future studies to identify optimal treatment approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An innovative amino acid-based metallo-supramolecular nanoassembly with POD- and GSHOx-like activities was designed for tumoricidal chemo-/photo-/catalytic combination therapy. [Display omitted] Nanozymes, as nanomaterials with natural enzyme activities, have been widely applied to deliver various therapeutic agents to synergistically combat the progression of malignant tumors. However, currently common inorganic nanozyme-based drug delivery systems still face challenges such as suboptimal biosafety, inadequate stability, and inferior tumor selectivity. Herein, a super-stable amino acid-based metallo-supramolecular nanoassembly (FPIC NPs) with peroxidase (POD)- and glutathione oxidase (GSHOx)-like activities was fabricated via Pt4+-driven coordination co-assembly of l -cysteine derivatives, the chemotherapeutic drug curcumin (Cur), and the photosensitizer indocyanine green (ICG). The superior POD- and GSHOx-like activities could not only catalyze the decomposition of endogenous hydrogen peroxide into massive hydroxyl radicals, but also deplete the overproduced glutathione (GSH) in cancer cells to weaken intracellular antioxidant defenses. Meanwhile, FPIC NPs would undergo degradation in response to GSH to specifically release Cur, causing efficient mitochondrial damage. In addition, FPIC NPs intrinsically enable fluorescence/photoacoustic imaging to visualize tumor accumulation of encapsulated ICG in real time, thereby determining an appropriate treatment time point for tumoricidal photothermal (PTT)/photodynamic therapy (PDT). In vitro and in vivo findings demonstrated the quadruple orchestration of catalytic therapy, chemotherapeutics, PTT, and PDT offers conspicuous antineoplastic effects with minimal side reactions. This work may provide novel ideas for designing supramolecular nanoassemblies with multiple enzymatic activities and therapeutic functions, allowing for wider applications of nanozymes and nanoassemblies in biomedicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study investigated the effect of photodynamic therapy on chronic periodontitis patients and then evaluated the microbial, immunological, periodontal, and clinical outcomes. The significant effects of photodynamic therapy obtained by in vitro and in vivo studies have made it a popular treatment for periodontal diseases in recent years. Photodynamic therapy is a novel bactericidal strategy that is stronger, faster, and less expensive than scaling and root planing. Method: This study registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021267008) and retrieved fifty-three randomized controlled trials by searching nine databases (Medline, Embase, Scopus, Open Gray, Google Scholar, ProQuest, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov) from 2008 to 2023. Of 721 records identified through database searches following title and full-text analysis, and excluding duplicate and irrelevant publications, 53 articles were included in this systematic review. Fifty of the 53 eligible studies fulfilled all the criteria in the Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI's) Checklist for RCTs; the remaining articles met 9-12 criteria and were considered high quality. Results: The present study showed that photodynamic therapy in adjunct to scaling and root planing has the potential to improve periodontal parameters such as clinical attachment loss or gain, decrease in bleeding on probing, and probing pocket depth. In addition, photodynamic therapy decreases the rate of periodontal pathogens and inflammation markers, which, in turn, reduces the progression of periodontitis. Conclusion: Photodynamic therapy is considered a promising, adjunctive, and low-cost therapeutic method that is effective in tissue repair, reducing chronic periodontitis, reducing inflammation, and well-tolerated by patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The study investigates the effects of curcumin in native conditions and after irradiation with 450 nm light on the energy metabolism, redox balance, and cellular growth of head and neck cancer cells and human primary fibroblasts. Although curcumin in native conditions already shows an anti-cancer effect, affecting energy metabolism and limiting the growth of tumor cells and cells that inhabit the surrounding microenvironment, irradiation with 450 nm light (photodynamic) enhances its effect by acting on antioxidant defenses. This study, therefore, opens up new perspectives on specific wavelengths of light that appear to be able to improve the drug's action on cancer growth and proliferation, offering hope for better patient outcomes in the future. Oral cancer is the 16th most common malignant tumor worldwide. The risk of recurrence and mortality is high, and the survival rate is low over the following five years. Recent studies have shown that curcumin causes apoptosis in tumor cells by affecting FoF1-ATP synthase (ATP synthase) activity, which, in turn, hinders cell energy production, leading to a loss of cell viability. Additionally, irradiation of curcumin within cells can intensify its detrimental effects on cancer cell viability and proliferation (photodynamic therapy). We treated the OHSU-974 cell line, a model for human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and primary human fibroblasts. The treatment involved a 1 h exposure of cells to 0.1, 1.0, and 10 μM curcumin, followed or not by irradiation or the addition of the same concentration of pre-irradiated curcumin. Both instances involved a diode laser with a wavelength of 450 nm (0.25 W, 15 J, 60 s, 1 cm2, continuous wave mode). The treatment with non-irradiated 1 and 10 µM curcumin caused ATP synthase inhibition and a consequent reduction in the oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and the ATP/AMP ratio, which was associated with a decrement in lipid peroxidation accumulation and a slight increase in glutathione reductase and catalase activity. By contrast, 60 s curcumin irradiation with 0.25 W—450 nm caused a further oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) metabolism impairment that induced an uncoupling between respiration and energy production, leading to increased oxidative damage, a cellular growth and viability reduction, and a cell cycle block in the G1 phase. These effects appeared to be more evident when the curcumin was irradiated after cell incubation. Since cells belonging to the HNSCC microenvironment support tumor development, curcumin's effects have been analyzed on primary human fibroblasts, and a decrease in cell energy status has been observed with both irradiated and non-irradiated curcumin and an increase in oxidative lipid damage and a slowing of cell growth were observed when the curcumin was irradiated before or after cellular administration. Thus, although curcumin displays an anti-cancer role on OHSU-974 in its native form, photoactivation seems to enhance its effects, making it effective even at low dosages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]