Objective: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an effective method of treating skin tumors such as Bowen disease. Dermabrasion surgery removes the visible carcinoma, and PDT diminishes suspected malignant lesions. Combining the two methods can treat and prevent the recurrence of carcinoma. In this study, we describe a case of highly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) located within a psoriatic lesion on the leg of a patient. Methods: Skin dermabrasion combined with four applications of PDT was used to successfully treat SCC. Topical tazarotene and calcipotriol ointments were used to treat the psoriasis, significantly improving the symptoms. Results: The SCC in the left leg disappeared without recurrence for 4 years of follow-up. Conclusions: PDT combined with skin dermabrasion is an effective method to treat SCC lesions with unclear boundaries.
Keywords: cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma; dermabrasion; photodynamic therapy; psoriasis.