Photodynamic Therapy vs Chemical Peels for Actinic Keratosis

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byMurad Alam, MD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Phase 2

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Northwestern University

No Placebo Group

Prior Safety Data

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

The purpose of this study is to to compare photodynamic therapy (PDT) versus the combination of Jessner's solution and 35% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) chemical peels for the treatment of actinic keratoses on upper extremities. This is a randomized clinical trial. Approximately 60 participants with actinic keratoses on both upper arms will be randomized to have one arm receive photodynamic therapy, while the contralateral arm receives Jessner's solution followed immediately by 35% TCA. AKs will be counted before treatment and 2-8 weeks after treatment. This study is a pilot study designed to determine the feasibility of this procedure. Subjects currently living in the Chicago metropolitan area and meet inclusion/exclusion criteria will be considered for enrollment.

Research Team

Murad Alam, MD

Principal Investigator

Northwestern University

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for adults over 18 in the Chicago area who want to treat actinic keratoses on both upper arms and are in good health. They must understand and sign a consent form. Pregnant or nursing individuals, those with communication issues, or extensive skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis on their arms cannot participate.

Inclusion Criteria

I am older than 18 years.

I want treatment for skin lesions on both of my upper arms.

In good general health as assessed by the investigator

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Exclusion Criteria

You have severe skin conditions on your arms that would make it hard for you to receive treatment.

Subject unwilling to sign an IRB approved consent form

I can communicate and cooperate with my doctor without issues.

See 1 more

Treatment Details

Interventions

Chemical Peels (Other)
Photodynamic Therapy (Other)

Trial OverviewThe study compares two treatments for actinic keratosis: photodynamic therapy (PDT) on one arm versus a chemical peel using Jessner's solution and trichloroacetic acid (TCA) on the other arm. Each participant receives both treatments, one on each arm, to see which works better.

Participant Groups

2Treatment groups

Active Control

Group I: Chemical PeelsActive Control1 Intervention

One upper arm will be exposed to Jessner's Solution AND 35% Trichloroacetic acid peel

Group II: Photodynamic TherapyActive Control1 Intervention

One upper arm will be exposed to blue light therapy