Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
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Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a procedure that is FDA approved to treatment Actinic Keratoses (precancerous lesions), that may lead to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the second most common skin cancer.
What are the advantages of PDT?
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It is easier for patients than repeated topical liquid nitrogen, Efudex(5FU), Carac or Aldara because the side effects are minimal, there is rapid healing, and only 3-4 treatments are required.
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The PDT treatment is often less painful than liquid nitrogen or 5FU.
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Reduced scarring and improved cosmetic outcome compared with cautery, surgery and 5FU. Liquid nitrogen can often leave white spots on your skin.
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Levulan improves the whole facial area that is treated, creating uniform color, texture, and tone, rather than just spot treating with liquid nitrogen, cautery and / or surgery.
Treatment Steps:
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Make sure your skin is clean and free of all makeup (including mascara and eye makeup), moisturizers and sunscreens. Bring a hat, sunglasses and scarf (when appropriate) to the clinic.
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You must sign a consent form prior to treatment.
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Photographs of the treatment area will be taken by the staff before Levulan is applied.
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An acetone or alcohol scrub will be applied. This will enhance the absorption of the Levulan and give much more even uptake.
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The skin will be debrided by your provider. Debridement is the process of removing the superficial scale and crust to allow the medication to more deeply penetrate the pre-cancerous lesion.
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Levulan is applied topically to the entire area to be treated.
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The Levulan is left on for an incubation time determined by the provider (2 – 3 hours). You will be required to remain in the clinic during this incubation period. Please bring something to read or listen to (headphones required) as you wait.
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After your incubation period, the Levulan is activated by a unique spectrum of blue light.
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Post-treatment expectations / instructions will be provided.
You may require several treatment sessions to achieve optimal results. The recommendations, based on many studies, are 3-4 treatments for AK’s (Actinic Keratosis).
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Medicine is not an exact science, and there can be no guarantee of results. While some individuals have fabulous results, it is possible that these treatments will not resolve all concerning lesions. Alternative treatments include lasers, topical medications, oral medications, cryosurgery, excisions and surgery.
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