Photodynamic Therapy
PDT is used for skin cancer prevention & as a treatment for superficial Skin Cancers.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a well evidenced treatment which is used to treat pre-cancerous sun-damage, and superficial skin cancers. PDT treatments effectively reduce sun damage with a good cosmetic result.
PDT is also used to treat acne.
PDT for Actinic Keratoses: pre-cancerous skin lesions.
If you have sun-damaged skin with scaly pink areas, pigmentation or rough patches, then it is likely you have pre-cancerous changes. The whole area will be affected, and this is referred to as “field cancerisation”.
Traditionally creams like Efudix and Aldara have been used and are very effective, but they require 3-4 weeks application, and two weeks healing time. During treatment, bright sunlight must be avoided, which can be inconvenient for patients who enjoy outdoor sports such as surfing, golf, tennis and bowls.
PDT is performed in one session, and the reaction settles within 7-10 days.
For many people, one session will produce the desired effect, but if enhanced cosmetic benefits are desired, or if you have particularly damaged skin, further treatments can be performed to maximise the results.
PDT for skin cancers.
Low-risk skin cancers in low-risk areas may be suitable for PDT treatment. Superficial Basal Cell carcinomas and Squamous Cell Carcinoma in-situ (IEC or Bowen’s disease) can be treated using a photosensitiser, and intense red light.
Before treatment, a biopsy (or results from a previous biopsy) is required, and a full skin check by an accredited skin cancer doctor or dermatologist.
For carefully selected lesions, the complete response rate is up to 97% after 12 months, and 81.8% after four years follow-up, which compares with 95% long term cure rates with surgery.
PDT for acne.
PDT can be a very effective therapy for acne and can produce long-lasting acne clearance, without the potential side effects of antibiotics and Roaccutane. It is indicated for inflammatory lesions (red with small pustules), and a series of 3-4 sessions is suggested.
The first 1-2 sessions may cause a temporary flare-up for a few days, but the improvement in acne is fairly rapid for most patients. Often the results are long-lasting, but extra sessions can be scheduled a few months later if needed.