Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Aminolaevulinic acid

Aminolaevulinic acid is a precursor to porphobilinogen, which is involved in the biosynthesis of heme.

Aminolaevulinic acid is a precursor to porphobilinogen, which is involved in the biosynthesis of heme. Used for Actinic keratosis, Basal cell carcinoma.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Aminolaevulinic acid is used in photodynamic therapy to selectively target cancer cells. It is activated by light to produce a photosensitizer that generates reactive oxygen species, leading to cell death.

Approved indications

• Actinic keratosis
• Basal cell carcinoma

Common side effects

• Phototoxicity
• Skin rash

Key clinical trials

• Fluorescence Image Guided Surgery Followed by Intraoperative Photodynamic Therapy for Improving Local Tumor Control in Patients With Locally Advanced or Recurrent Colorectal Cancer (PHASE1, PHASE2)
• Leica Microsystems Sponsored PMCF Study to Collect and Confirm Clinical Data on the Performance of the GLOW400 Device When Used in Accordance With Its Intended Use
• Comparison of 5-ALA Photodynamic Therapy and CO2 Laser for Treating Persistent Low-Grade Cervical Lesions With High-Risk HPV Infection (NA)
• Photodynamic Therapy With Hydrogel Dressing for Chronic Wounds (NA)
• ALA-PDT in Patients With CIN2 in p16-positivity and High-risk HPV Infection (PHASE2)
• Imaging Procedure Using ALA in Finding Residual Tumor in Grade IV Malignant Astrocytoma (PHASE2)
• Aminolaevulinic Acid Photodynamic Therapy for HPV+ Low Grade Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (LSIL;CIN1) (PHASE2)
• Aminolaevulinic Acid Photodynamic Therapy of Cervical Persistent HPV Infection and Cervical Neoplasia (PHASE2)

Primary sources

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