Photodynamic therapy in the treatment of rosacea

Background: Rosacea is a common disease, with an estimated prevalence of 5-10%. Established systemic and topical treatment is often effective but requires continuous medication. Aim: We report the outcome of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in 4 patients with rosacea. Methods: Prior treatment consisted of standard treatment with tetracycline and metronidazole. The treatment was however either ineffective or the patients were dissatisfied with the need for continuous treatment. The patients all received standard treatment with PDT. Results: The treated skin cleared in 3 of the 4 patients. Treatment with light alone did not appear to have any effect. In one of the patients there has been no relapse during a 9-month follow-up. In 2 patients, remissions lasted 3 months, during which time no additional or supplementary treatment was used. Conclusion: Our observation suggests that PDT may play a role in the future treatment of selected cases of rosacea.