Stafford Skincare
providing specialist dermatology care
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for the treatment of skin cancers and pre-cancerous skin growths
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a well-established and highly successful method of treating Basal Cell Cancers, Bowen’s Disease and Actinic Keratosis (red scaling patches found in sun-damaged skin). Photodynamic Therapy is approved by NICE and has excellent cosmetic results and cure rates. The cure rates for Photodynamic Therapy are similar to the more traditional forms of treatment. However, unlike surgery or radiotherapy, Photodynamic Therapy can cure skin cancer without leaving a visible scar.
Treatment with Photodynamic Therapy is very simple. When used to treat skin cancers and pre-cancerous skin growths, a light sensitive cream is rubbed on to the affected area and covered for 4 – 6 hours so that the cream penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin. The cream is only absorbed by abnormal skin cells. Shining a specific wavelength of red light (not laser) on to the treated area activates the cream which then selectively destroys the abnormal skin cells. Healing is very rapid – usually 1 or 2 weeks only – because the surrounding healthy skin is not damaged, and the resulting cosmetic appearance is excellent.
The side effects of Photodynamic Therapy usually depend on the total length of time that the cream has been applied. When treating skin cancer or pre-cancerous skin growths, the cream needs to be applied for between 4 – 6 hours. It is normal to feel a burning sensation during treatment, with pain, itching, redness, swelling and crusting of the treated area for approximately 1 week after treatment. After treatment, the area is usually covered with a dressing for 2 days.Dr. Anne Ward set up the Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) service to treat skin cancers and pre-cancerous skin growths in 2001. Photodynamic Therapy for skin cancer and pre-cancerous skin growths is available as an NHS treatment in selected cases, and is covered by most private health insurance policies.
Basal cell cancer of the ear before and after PDT
Bowen's disease before and after PDT
© K.A.Ward 2009
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