Abstract
Topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) causes localized phototoxicity and has been shown both in vitro and in humans to have immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive effects. We report a case of localized bullous pemphigoid (BP) developing after PDT. Although BP has been reported to develop following cutaneous insults such as surgery, radiotherapy, psoralen ultraviolet A (PUVA) and ultraviolet B phototherapy, PDT has not previously been reported as a trigger. Possible mechanisms include direct mechanical injury to the basement membrane and subsequent autoantibody formation, an indirect immunomodulatory effect of PDT, or most likely, precipitation of BP in individuals with pre-existing low titres of epidermal autoantibodies (so-called subclinical BP). PDT should be added to the list of possible exogenous triggers for BP and this condition should be considered if blistering develops following PDT.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 251-253 |
Number of pages | 3 |
Journal | Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine |
Volume | 27 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Oct 2011 |
Keywords
- adverse effects
- bullous pemphigoid
- topical photodynamic therapy