Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic therapy is a targeted treatment for selected sun related lesions and superficial skin cancers. It combines a light sensitising cream applied to the skin with a specific light source to destroy abnormal cells while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue.

Conditions treated with PDT

PDT is particularly useful for:

It is particularly suited to cosmetically sensitive sites where preserving the best possible skin appearance is important.

How PDT works

A photosensitising cream is applied to the affected skin and left for a prescribed period to allow it to concentrate within abnormal cells. The area is then exposed to a specific wavelength of light which activates the cream and generates a reaction that destroys the targeted cells.

  • Treats a field of sun damage rather than individual lesions
  • Minimises damage to surrounding healthy skin
  • Can be repeated if necessary

What to expect during and after PDT

During illumination some patients experience burning or stinging, which can be managed with cooling measures and simple analgesia. After treatment the area is usually red, swollen and may crust or peel over the following days.

  • Healing typically occurs over one to two weeks
  • Temporary light sensitivity of the treated area is expected
  • Final cosmetic outcome is often excellent compared with more invasive options

More than one treatment session may be required depending on the number and type of lesions.

If you have widespread actinic keratoses or superficial lesions and are interested in photodynamic therapy, please contact us through the contact page.