Methylene blue-mediated photodynamic therapy on cutaneous leishmaniasis

Abstract

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a neglected disease, which promotes destructive lesions. Difficulties in treatment are related to resistance and toxicity. Methylene blue-mediated photodynamic therapy (MB-PDT) has emerged as a promising treatment considering low cost and no reports about resistance. We evaluated MB-PDT on Leishmania amazonensis in vitro and in vivo using a red LED at different fluences. Our results demonstrated that the best fluence in vitro was not effective in vivo, and a higher dose was necessary to provide better responses in mice. This study reinforces the idea that a well-planned protocol is necessary for a successful MB-PDT on CL.