Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic therapy, also referred to as PDT, is an evidence based medical treatment designed to treat superficial skin cancers and actinic keratoses.

At Shade Skin Cancer Medicine, we offer Photodynamic therapy to treat the following skin concerns:

  • Solar/actinic keratoses

  • Some types of keratinocyte (non-melanoma) skin cancer

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) involves the application of a special cream called 5-ALA which is then activated by a light of a certain wavelength. The cream is absorbed into the abnormal skin cells to locally target the damaged skin while leaving the surrounding skin intact.

Once the cream is activated by the light, the active ingredient in the cream works to then selectively destroy the abnormal cells of the sun damaged or cancerous skin.

FAQs

  • Prior to having photodynamic therapy all patients will have a thorough consultation with a Doctor where they will assess the lesions of concern, the risks and benefits of treatment and your goals of treatment. From here a treatment plan will be provided which will detail the PDT process, expected recovery and outcome.

    Two weeks prior to the treatment, an exfoliating cleanser and ointment will need to be applied to the skin every night. Immediately prior to treatment the skin will be cleansed, the ALA cream applied  by our nurse and a 2-4 hour incubation window will be required (feel free to bring a book or a laptop for this time, or relax at home).

    Once absorbed, the light source is applied via the Healite LED light. The light may feel strange and uncomfortable during this time however pain relief is generally not required - a fan and cooling spray will be supplied. Following the light application you are free to go about your day however it is important to ensure that there is absolutely no sun exposure in the 48 hours following to reduce the risk of complications.

  • In general only one treatment of photodynamic therapy is required to clear solar keratoses; superficial skin cancers usually require two treatments 4 weeks apart. However it is important to note that multiple sessions may be required for more serious sun damage.

    In some cases multiple sessions may be required to treat different parts of the body for those with extensive sun damage.

  • Our team provides comprehensive aftercare instructions to minimize complications and ensure full wound healing to optimise treatment outcomes. These instructions will be provided post procedure. 

    A cool compress should be applied following treatment in addition to the regular application of the supplied aftercare balm to manage pain, swelling and reduce the risk of infection to the skin.

    It is important to avoid the sun completely for the first 48 hours post treatment which will involve staying indoors at all times and avoiding any incidental sun exposure.

    Post treatment recovery will last up to a week to ten days and will involve sensitivity, inflammation, dryness and redness to the treated area. Detailed information about treatment downtime will be discussed during your consultation.

  • Please see the pricing page. Full quotation for the procedure will be provided on consultation.

    Note that there are no medicare rebates for photodynamic therapy. In some cases a private health fund rebate may be available for the prescription of the 5-ALA cream. The cost of your treatment includes an aftercare pack.