Efficacy of photodynamic therapy in women with HSIL, LSIL and early stage squamous cervical cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: We sought to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized and non-randomized clinical trials to assess the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in cervical epithelial neoplasia (CIN) and early-stage cervical cancer. Additionally, according to the results, we tried to consider which stage of CIN is more sensitive to PDT. Methods: A systematic search was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, the Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria: all patients had confirmed low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL), high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), or an early-stage cervical cancer - the cancer is less than 3 mm deep into the cervix -IA; type of photosensitizer and any type of wavelength. Exclusion criteria: women who were previously treated with PDT; Risk of bias assessment was carried out for each study included in the systematic review using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions: RoB-2 was used to assess the risk of bias in randomized studies, while ROBINS-I - in non-randomized ones. Results: We identified 2213 publications, but only 6 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the synthesis. PDT is most effective when patients have CIN 2 or photosensitizer is administered intravenously. Conclusion: Based on our systematic review and meta-analysis, it could be concluded that photodynamic therapy may be a practical approach in CIN (LSIL) regression compared with placebo. Nevertheless, we need more evidence and long-term follow-up to answer all questions thoroughly.

Automated summary

This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on evaluating the efficacy of photodynamic therapy in cervical epithelial neoplasia and early-stage cervical cancer. The study found that PDT is most effective in treating CIN 2 and when photosensitizer is administered intravenously. While PDT may contribute to regression in CIN (LSIL), further evidence and long-term follow-up are necessary for a definitive conclusion.