Photodynamic Therapy / Rejuvination
What is Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)?
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has gained reputation as the revolutionary form of technology used for the treatment of certain types of skin cancers, pre-cancerous lesions and photodamage. Photodynamic therapy may also be used in a cosmetic setting as a method of ‘photo-rejuvenation’.
How is PDT different from other treatments for skin cancer and pre-cancerous lesions?
With PDT there is:
- Less potential for scarring
- Less down time and quicker recovery (typically days not weeks or months)
- High efficacy rates
It is important to note that not all lesions are suitable for Photodynamic Therapy, a specialist dermatologist can advice you on the most appropriate treatment for your condition.
How can PDT benefit me?
At Westside Dermatology we use PDT is used to treat the following conditions-
- Sunspots /solar keratoses ( especially on the face)
- Photorejuvination of sun damaged skin
- Treatment of Superficial Basal cell cancers and squamous cell cancer insitu
How is PDT performed?
Photodynamic therapy is a non surgical and well tolerated treatment that combines the use of a special photosensitizing agent (ALA). This chemical is activated with a specific wavelength and intensity of light. It is a two-part treatment. First, the drug is administered to the skin via cream. This is followed by exposure under a specific light source for several minutes. Once the skin is exposed to the light treatment, the photosensitive drug starts to react by destroying damaged and cancerous cells leaving normal skin tissue unaffected.
PDT is a simple, well tolerated and most importantly, effective procedure with minimal down time.There is a reduced risk of scarring and improved cosmetic outcome compared to many other surgical techniques. PDT will treat the whole area to which it is applied, and is therefore an excellent treatment for lesions on the face and scalp.
Is PDT painful?
Pain varies from patient to patient, the location and extent of the lesions. In general PDT is well tolerated and in many cases an anaesthetic is not required.
Patients often experience slight burning and stinging during the procedure. Patient comfort levels are helped with the administration of panadol one hour before illumination. A cool spray of nitrogen during the procedure will also decrease the stinging. If necessary an anaesthetic cream such as EMLA can be used to alleviate any discomfort during the procedure. As a guideline, 95% of patients do not require an anaesthetic.
Further information on PDT treatment
What to expect after PDT
Due to the photosensitivity of the drug used, you will feel sunburned and occasionally swollen after the treatment. This usually subsides within a day. Peeling and redness usually occurs for 2-6 days after treatment, depending on the size and site of treatment. This resolves with appropriate post treatment care. Dark spots and patches may become darker temporarily, and then peel off leaving normal skin.
How long does PDT take and how much time off work will I need?
Preparation of the area for PDT typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. The second part of the treatment (activation of the cream with a specific light source) takes 15 minutes to complete. From preparation to activation, there is a wait time of 3 hours- this allows maximum penetration of the cream into the areas of treated skin.
How much time off work will depends on the site and extent of treatment. Typically redness deceases after the second day of treatment.
Your dermatologist will assess how your skin will react to PDT and how much time off work you will need. As a guide, if PDT is performed on a Friday, most people can return to work on a Monday. For larger areas, an extra day or two of recovery is needed.
What is the cost of treatment?
Your dermatologist will discuss costing at the time of consultation. Depending on the application some patients will require one treatment, whilst others will need 2 cycles.
PDT Procedure
 |
Preparation of the treatment site |
 |
Application of the cream for photodynamic therapy |
 |
Absorption of the ALA cream |
 |
Activation of ALA using a high intensity red light source
|
Before and After
Click on the image to view more before and after results.
PDT is an excellent modality for treating superficial skin cancers on cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face and chest’
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2007
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a highly effective, targeted treatment that destroys cancer cells without harming surrounding skin. High intensity red light is used to activate a light sensitive substance that accumulates selectively in cancer cells, sparing normal surrounding tissue.
Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist