Photodynamic therapy

This is performed by the topical application of a light sensitizing solution to the skin, followed by exposure of the treated skin to red or blue light in a doctor's office. This causes damage to the "precancerous" and cancerous cells resulting in their death. The light sensitizing solution is applied and allowed to set on the skin for ~16 hours, and then the patient is exposed to light for 12-20 minutes. There is a burning sensation during the actual light exposure. The treated area will appear red and scaly to scabby after the treatment. The skin will heal in ~10 days. This is an accepted treatment for actinic keratoses.

Note: Please click on the thumbnails below to display a larger image.