Have you heard about photodynamic therapy? It is one of the most trusted treatments against skin cancer and severely impaired skin. But very less is known about this vital treatment. So, why not take out some time from your busy schedule and learn a bit about photodynamic therapy in Melbourne?
Harmful UV rays have the potential to damage our skin in an unrepairable manner. Perpetual exposure to the sun may cause skin cancer, premature ageing, sun spots, rashes and many other skin issues. To reverse these grave impacts of UVA and UVB rays on skin, at Nitai Medical and Cosmetic Centre, we suggest resorting to photodynamic therapy.
Photodynamic therapy can be used in the treatment of certain types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and Bowen’s disease. Also, for the management of lesions with malignant potential such as actinic keratosis and porokeratosis this treatment is used. Other situations in which we use photodynamic therapy as an excellent therapeutic alternative is in the management of acne, acne rosacea and photo-ageing.
How is it performed?
On the day of treatment, the skin is gently cleansed and the crusts are removed, the sensitizing cream is applied on the area to be treated, leaving it covered for 1-3 hours (depending on the indication). After this period the illumination is performed with a special diode lamp for a few minutes, between 7 and 10 minutes, depending on each case. Once the session is over, the patient may return to his normal life without any problem. The number of sessions is defined by the skin cancer doctor depending on the therapeutic indication.
What risks does it involve?
This treatment does not carry any severe risk but a few side-effects may be seen during or just after the treatment, which involves itching, burning, heat and even pain during the application of light, especially when treating the face or extensive areas. Such side-effects are relieved by the application of cold pack or cold water spray.
Also, in a few cases, after the treatment, scabs and redness may appear that resolve on its own in a few days without any sequelae.
What precautions should be taken after the procedure?
After the procedure, we recommend using a sunscreen with a high protection factor for at least the first 48 hours. Additionally, we recommend covering wounds in the case of treatment of cancer or precancerous lesions.
Photodynamic therapy is prohibited in patients with lupus, porphyria and in pregnant women.
The photodynamic therapy is usually carried out in the cases of:
- Skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, Bowen’s disease,
- Precancerous lesions: actinic keratosis, porokeratosis
- Acne
- Acne rosacea
- Photo-ageing.This photodynamic treatment shows effective results after each session. If you have any other skin concern or you are willing to know more about skin cancer treatments, contact us at admin@nitai.com.au.
