Photodynamic Therapy for Pre-skin Cancers

Source: http://www.skinandlasers.com/skincancer_photodynamic.htm

What Is Photodynamic Therapy?

PDT is a light therapy combined with a photosensitizing agent called ALA (aminolevulinic acid) to treat pre-cancerous changes of the skin.

How Does It Work?

The ALA medication is applied to the skin for at least an hour in the office, followed by exposure light for 15-20 minutes. Once the ALA on the skin is exposed to the light, this photosensitive drug starts to react by attacking the diseased pre-cancerous cells.

What Are The Advantages Of This Treatment As Opposed To Other Treatments For Actinic Keratoses?

The cause of skin cancer, like other forms of cancer, is not completely known. Excessive exposure to sunlight is the single most important factor associated with the development of these skin cancers, which appear most commonly on the face and the arms (the most sun-exposed parts of the body). Fair-skinned people develop skin cancer more frequently than dark-skinned people. Skin cancer, unlike cancer of the other organs, is rarely found in African Americans.

1. It is easier for patients than repeated topical liquid nitrogen, or other topical chemotherapeutic agents because the side effects are minimal, rapid healing occurs, and only 1-3 treatments are required.

2. The ALA/PDT treatment in our office is near painless in comparison to some other treatments.

3. There is a reduced risk of scarring and improved cosmetic outcome compared to many other surgical techniques.

4. PDT will treat the whole area to which it is applied, leaving less of a chance of missing some spots when compared to many surgical techniques.

5. The treatment is non-invasive (no needles or surgery required).

What Are The Disadvantages?

Due to the photosensitivity of ALA , you will feel sunburned and possibly swollen after the treatment. This usually subsides after 24 hours. Soon thereafter you may have some oozing or peeling for 2-7 days. This resolves with appropriate post care instructions that will be reviewed with you after your treatment. Darker pigmented patches called liver spots may become darker temporarily, then peel off leaving normal skin.

What Kind Of Care Must I Do Afterwards?

Sun block must be on for at least 24 hours after treatment. Direct and indirect lighting must be avoided. A topical application such as aloe vera and/or hydrocortisone 1% is helpful in soothing the skin. A cool compress will help with any swelling. Make up application and shaving is fine except for any oozing areas.

Is This Treatment Covered By Insurance?

Since the FDA approved this treatment in 1999, it has been recognized and reimbursed by most, but not all insurance companies. Please feel free to call for a private consultation or Schedule an appointment online @ one of our offices.