ARSENIC-INDUCED SKIN TUMORS TREATED WITH TOPICAL PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPYAFTER APPLICATION OF 5-AMINOLEVULINIC ACID

A case of a 62-year-old woman suffering from psoriasis is reported, wh o was treated orally with arsenic 25 years ago (cumulative dose: 800 m g of arsenic trioxide). Over 10 years arsenic keratoses, basal cell ca rcinomas, Bowen's disease and invasive squamous cell carcinomas mainly on her hands and feet have been observed, skin changes were clearly a consequence of arsenic therapy. Control of disease was poor, her righ t little finger had to be amputated. Topical photodynamic therapy with 5-aminolevulinic acid was performed on her right hand. Clinical and h istological examinations 6 months after treatment showed an excellent cosmetic result with no signs of tumor residue.