Loop electrosurgical excision procedure followed by 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, a report of six cases

Abstract Background Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) may progress to cervical cancer if left untreated. The loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) of the transitional zone of the cervix is a standard form of treatment. However, human papillomavirus (HPV)-induced CIN may recur after LEEP. The purpose of this case report is to describe the successful use of 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT) as an adjunct to LEEP, in preventing the recurrence of CIN. Methods The effectiveness of this combined treatment was evaluated in six women. The diagnosis of HPV-induced CIN was determined using HPV DNA tests and liquid-based cervical cytology. Lesion removal was performed 3 h after application of ALA using a 635 nm light density of 80 mw/cm2. Results We treated 6 women aged 31–62 years who had persistent CIN following LEEP, with ALA-PDT (range, 4–7 treatments). Five of the 6 women were HPV negative on retesting 6–7 months after ALA-PDT. Most patients showed no signs of recurrence during the follow-up period. Conclusions Use of ALA-PDT following LEEP may prevent the recurrence of CIN. Monitoring HPV status by means of DNA testing and liquid-based cytology may be used as a standard for clinical diagnosis and treatment. Post-treatment care should be carefully considered because improper post-treatment care might directly lead to relapse.