Early activation of fibroblasts during PDT treatment in leg ulcers.

Background: This pilot study was aimed to assess the variations of some microscopical parameters in skin ulcers, caused by chronic venous insufficiency of the lower extremities (chronic leg ulcers), in 15 patients refractory to previous conventional treatments during photodynamic therapy (PDT).

Methods: Samples of control, wounded and PDT treated skin were taken and analyzed by immunohistochemistry.

Results: The cellular infiltrate, as well as the thickness of epidermis, vascularization, mast cell and fibroblast numbers, were increased in chronic wounds as compared to healthy skin.