What is PDT skin treatment?

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses a cream and a light source to make the cancer sensitive to light. It is used to treat sunspots, superficial BCCs and squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowen’s disease). First the GP or dermatologist gently scrapes the area with a curette to remove any dry skin or crusting.

How long does it take to heal from PDT?

It usually takes around 2 to 6 weeks for the area to heal completely, depending on which part of the body has been treated and how big the area is.

Who is the ideal patient for photodynamic therapy?

No two individuals are the same, and results may vary. Some conditions can improve dramatically in some patients and not respond in others. Overall, patients with severely sun-damaged skin with actinic keratosis, mottled pigmentation, dull or sallow skin, and skin laxity, may see good to excellent improvement with PDT.

What is the most common form of PDT used in dermatology?

The most commonly used photosensitizers in photodynamic therapy (PDT) are ALA and MAL. Both ALA and MAL are approved in several countries, including the United States, for the treatment of AKs only. However, off-label uses such as the treatment of BCC, photoaging, and acne vulgaris are common.

Can I wash my face after PDT treatment?

Shower and wash the area immediately and as often as needed. Gently wash the area with soap and water two to three times a day, and apply Aquaphor or Vaseline to the area. Avoidance of harsh or abrasive cleansers is advised. Picking or scrubbing the skin could cause severe irritation or scarring.

How effective is PDT?

Studies have shown that PDT can work as well as surgery or radiation therapy in treating certain kinds of cancers and pre-cancers. It has some advantages, such as: It has no long-term side effects when used properly. It’s less invasive than surgery.

Can I wash my face after PDT?

Wash your face thoroughly and bring a hat with you to the office for use after treatment.

Does PDT treatment hurt?

The single-day procedure is effective, safe, non-invasive and allows treatment of large areas. However, the main drawback of PDT is the pain experienced during its application. Particularly painful is the treatment of AK located on the face and scalp.

What are the disadvantages of photodynamic therapy?

But PDT also has drawbacks. It can only treat areas where light can reach. That means it can only be used to treat cancer on or just under the skin, or in the linings of some organs. Also, it cannot be used in people with certain blood diseases.

What should I avoid after photodynamic therapy?

Again, you should avoid all direct sun exposure for 48 hours after your PDT light treatment. During the 48 hours after your PDT light treatment you may experience redness, swelling, and stinging of your treated skin, similar to the reaction that you might have with a bad sunburn. Your skin may feel hot.

What should I put on my face after PDT?

Use a clean towel to pat your skin dry and avoid rubbing the area. Then, apply a moisturizer (such as Cetaphil, Lubriderm®, Aquaphor®, or Vaseline®) to the area to keep your skin moist.

Can I watch TV after PDT?

You can watch TV as long as you are at least 5-8 feet away from the TV screen. Wear a thick layer of sunblock that has at least SPF 30 and contains Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide during the first 48-72 hours.

What can be treated with Ala / PDT therapy?

What conditions can be treated with ALA/PDT Therapy? 1 Removing pre-cancerous actininc keratoses (AK). 2 Preventing skin cancer. 3 Improving wrinkles. 4 Reducing pore size. 5 Improving skin texture. 6 (more items)

What is photodynamic therapy ( PDT ) with Levulan ( Ala )?

Levulan (ALA) Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) With Levulan is a special treatment performed with a topical photosensitizing agent called Levulan. The procedure combines light and a special light-activated topical photosensitizing agent called Levulan. Levulan is a 20% solution of Aminolevulinic Acid (ALA).

How long does it take for Ala and PDT to work?

It is then activated with a specific wavelength of light called BLU-U or Clear-Light. This takes about 8-10 minutes. Following ALA/PDT, the treated areas can appear red with some peeling for 2-7 days. Some patients have an exuberant response to PDT, and experience marked redness of their skin.

How is 5-ALA PDT used to treat HGGs?

Use of 5-ALA PDT permits selective tumor targeting due to the intracellular metabolism of 5-ALA. The immunomodulatory effects of PDT further strengthen its use for treatment of HGGs and requires a better understanding. … PDT remains a promising therapeutic approach that requires further study in HGGs.