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Emerging Combination Therapies Involving Photodynamic Therapy for Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinomas

Journal of Biomedical Research & Environmental Sciences article abstract with citation details, DOI, publication dates, subject areas, full text links, and references.

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Open Access
Article Type Review Article
Subject Medicine Group
OCLC JBRES Record
Calista Persson* and Akhil Gupta
Issue: Volume6-Issue6
Pages: 715-728
Received: 2025-05-23
Accepted: 2025-06-15
Published: 2025-06-16

Abstract

Background: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) are the most prevalent non-melanoma skin cancers. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is an established, non-invasive treatment known for its favorable cosmetic results, especially in superficial lesions. However, its limited penetration restricts effectiveness against thicker or more aggressive tumors, prompting the development of combination strategies to enhance PDT's efficacy.

Methods: This narrative review examines studies published from 2015 to 2025 that explore combining PDT with other treatments for BCC and SCC. A systematic search identified clinical trials, cohort studies, and case reports focusing on combinations with immunotherapy, chemotherapy, physical debulking, nanotechnology, and pharmacologic agents. The analysis considered treatment outcomes, safety, mechanistic insights, and therapeutic synergy.

Results: Combination treatments showed improved tumor clearance rates, reduced recurrence, and enhanced immune responses. Immunomodulators and immune checkpoint inhibitors boosted the immune effects of PDT. Topical chemotherapy, like fluorouracil, enhanced photosensitizer uptake and lesion clearance. Mechanical techniques, such as curettage or laser ablation, improved cure rates for nodular BCC. Nanoparticle delivery systems enabled deeper tissue penetration, while agents like vitamin D analogues and mTOR inhibitors increased tumor sensitivity to PDT. Importantly, these combinations preserved cosmetic outcomes while expanding efficacy for more aggressive lesions.

Conclusion: Integrating PDT with immunological, chemical, physical, or nanotechnological approaches represents a significant advancement in non-melanoma skin cancer treatment. These combinations overcome traditional monotherapy limitations and maintain cosmetic benefits. Future large-scale trials are crucial to refine protocols, validate long-term outcomes, and encourage routine clinical implementation.

FullText HTML FullText PDF DOI: 10.37871/jbres2125 Crossmark

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© 2025 Persson C, et al., Distributed under Creative Commons CC-BY 4.0 Creative CommonsAttribution

How to cite this article

Persson C, Gupta A. Emerging Combination Therapies Involving Photodynamic Therapy for Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinomas. J Biomed Res Environ Sci. 2025 Jun 16; 6(6): 715-728. doi: 10.37871/jbres2125, Article ID: JBRES2125, Available at: https://www.jelsciences.com/articles/jbres2125.pdf

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