Evaluation of patient-perceived satisfaction with photodynamic therapy for Bowen disease

to formally evaluate patient concerns and patient-perceived satisfaction with photodynamic therapy (PDT) using topical application of 5-aminolevulinic acid for Bowen disease (BD).Initial focus groups and mailout questionnaire.tertiary care hospital.a novel 32-item self-reported patient satisfaction questionnaire was mailed out to all patients treated with PDT for BD from January 1, 2000, to March 31, 2008.a written questionnaire addressing side effects experienced, self-perceived effectiveness, and the personal and social consequences of PDT.one hundred thirty-two adults were treated with PDT for BD over this time period. Ninety-five patients (47% male, 53% female) completed the questionnaire. A majority (90%) indicated a very favourable impression of the effectiveness of PDT for BD and that side effects were mild. The most significant side effects were a burning sensation (21%) and crusting or scabbing (14%). Side effects were judged to be predictable. The process of treatment and overall time demands were judged by only 7% of respondents to be problematic. The most substantial limitations with PDT were social limitations secondary to treatment (26%), self-consciousness (28%), and skin appearance in the immediate posttreatment period (30%). Respondent reliability in response to questions was excellent.PDT is favourably received by those diagnosed with BD. PDT resulted in a high degree of perceived satisfaction for those patients with BD. Based on these data, PDT is supported as a viable method of treatment for BD.