Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a non-surgical treatment that may be used for selected superficial skin lesions and areas affected by sun damage. It uses a photosensitising medication and controlled light exposure to target abnormal cells.
At Penrith Skin Cancer Clinic, PDT may be considered when clinically appropriate for the type, depth and extent of the lesion. Your doctor will assess your skin and discuss whether this treatment is suitable for your individual circumstances.
PDT combines a photosensitising medication with a specific light source. The medication is applied to the affected area and allowed to absorb into the skin during an appropriate preparation period.
The treated area is then exposed to controlled light, which activates the medication and produces a reaction that targets abnormal cells. The exact treatment process can vary depending on the lesion and the treatment plan recommended by your doctor.
Some patients experience discomfort, warmth, tingling or a stinging sensation while the light treatment is being administered. The experience can vary depending on the individual and the area being treated.
Following PDT, temporary redness, swelling, crusting or increased sensitivity may occur. Your doctor will explain possible reactions and advise you on appropriate aftercare.
Penrith Skin Cancer Clinic provides assessment and treatment for a range of skin cancer concerns. Dr Mesbah Alam holds a Diploma in Skin Cancer Medicine and Surgery and a Diploma in Dermatoscopy, with the wider team bringing experience in skin cancer diagnosis and surgery.
If you have a sun-damaged area, actinic keratosis or a diagnosed superficial skin lesion, speak with the team to find out whether Photodynamic Therapy may be appropriate for you.
PDT stands for photodynamic therapy. It is a light-based treatment approach in which a photosensitive substance is activated using a specific light source. The clinic offers photodynamic therapy as one of its treatment options for suitable benign skin conditions, with treatment recommendations made after professional clinical assessment.
PDT involves applying a light-sensitive agent to the area being treated before exposing it to an appropriate light source. The activated agent helps target selected abnormal cells. The exact process can vary according to the condition and treatment plan, so your doctor will explain what is involved before proceeding.
PDT can provide a nonsurgical treatment option for selected skin conditions. It may be considered when a suitable condition can be managed without surgical removal. However, it is not automatically preferable to surgery. Your doctor will assess the area and recommend the approach considered most appropriate for your circumstances.
No. Photodynamic therapy is not suitable for every skin concern. Penrith Skin Cancer Clinic specifically lists PDT among the treatments available for benign skin conditions. A medical assessment is therefore important before treatment, allowing your doctor to determine whether PDT is an appropriate choice for the condition being considered.
Yes. A consultation allows your doctor to assess the skin concern and decide whether photodynamic therapy is suitable. It also allows you to discuss the proposed treatment and understand what to expect. Penrith Skin Cancer Clinic provides online appointment requests and consultations with its skin cancer doctors.
Penrith Skin Cancer Clinic is led by accredited and certified skin cancer doctors, with a team experienced in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment. Dr Mesbah Alam has more than 7 years of experience diagnosing and treating various skin cancers and holds specialist qualifications in skin cancer and dermatoscopy.
