Photodynamic Therapy

How does it work?

A cream that contains either methyl aminolevulinate or salicylcic acid is applied to the damaged skin. It is absorbed by the altered skin cells of these lesions. The creams cause compounds called porphyrins to accumulate and be absorbed selectively by the AK and BCC lesions. These porphyrins are light sensitive, so when the cream is illuminated and activated by an appropriate light source it causes a chemical reaction in the skin cells that destroys the lesion.

Treatment info

A 15-minute appointment will be booked to have the cream applied to the lesions to be treated, which will then be covered with a flesh
coloured dressing.

There is a three-hour waiting period for the cream to be absorbed. Patients can leave the surgery during this time but must leave the protective dressings intact. The procedure can be uncomfortable and it is advised to take or two paracetamol taken 60 minutes prior and every 4-6 hours after the treatment if required.

On returning to the clinic, the cream will be washed off and immediately illuminated with a red light. Light exposure can be anywhere between 8-20 minutes.

PDT requires 2-3 treatment sessions, 7-21 days apart, to ensure the lesion is adequately destroyed. Good results are observed following this procedure for the treatment of Actinic Keratoses and certain types of Basal Cell Carcinomas. A follow-up appointment with a doctor will be required a few weeks or months  following the final treatment.

After treatment

Patients will be given instructions for follow-up care, which may include a prescription medicine to be applied three times daily for seven days. Follow-up appointments with a nurse will be booked to check the healing process. Sunscreen needs to be applied everyday even in winter and if the sun is not out.