Laser-assisted photodynamic therapy for proliferative verrucous leukoplakia: a case report

Proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL) is an uncommon but highly aggressive oral potentially malignant disorder, characterized by a high rate of malignant transformation and notable resistance to conventional treatments, including surgery, laser ablation, and systemic agents. Herein, we present a case of PVL in a 60‑year‑old female with no history of tobacco, alcohol, or betel nut consumption. The lesion, situated on the left buccal mucosa, was treated with laser‑assisted photodynamic therapy (PDT). Following two sessions, the lesion resolved completely, with no recurrence during a 20‑month follow‑up. This case report reinforces the limited evidence advocating PDT as a viable alternative for PVL, particularly when combined with laser pretreatment to circumvent the impediment posed by lesion hyperkeratosis.