PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses oxygen, light, combined with Aminolevulinic acid crystals, to create a controlled chemical reaction that destroys abnormal cells. 

PDT can be used to treat sun spots (actinic keratoses), some pre-cancerous growths and superficial skin cancers.  It can also treat a variety of skin conditions such as acne and can be used for cosmetic rejuvenation. 

Traditional PDT devices, whilst very effective, are very painful. Older technologies have one red light, immediately penetrating deep into the skin, causing a high level of patient discomfort.  The new German-engineered MultiLite technology provides a ‘stepping through’ of three lights in phases: blue light (short depth), yellow light (medium depth), red light (long depth). This technology offers a much more comfortable treatment process for the patient. 

PDT offers many benefits when compared with alternative treatments.  It is an outpatient procedure and can be repeated if necessary.  PDT can be used as an alternative to cryosurgery, which can be painful and result in permanent white marks.  PDT can also be used as an alternative to topical immunotherapy, which has to be self-administered over a number of weeks.  PDT therefore is widely regarded as a more cosmetically acceptable treatment.  

The treatment time will depend upon how many sites are being treated.  Usually, 1 hour 30 minutes is required to treat one area of the body.

This will depend upon the medical issue being treated.  Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific medical needs. 

PDT treatment costs vary depending on your requirements.  Our team will be happy to provide more information.