Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Actinic Keratoses (AKs) ​are scaly, dry patches on the skin caused by excessive exposure to sunlight. They have referred to as "sun spots" and they can occur most frequently on sun exposed areas such as the scalp, ears, face,  neck, arms and hands. AKs grow on the outer layer of skin and can be skin toned to reddish brown in color. They also range in size from as small as a pinhead to larger than a quarter. Millions of Americans have AK lesions, and they are most common in fair skinned individuals.​

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AKs develop as the result of years of sun exposure over a long perior of time.  The more sun you have been exposed to, the more likely you are to have AKs.    Risk factors include: fair skin, blonde or red hair, tendencies towards freckling, and a weakened immune system.

 

AKs are considered to be the first step in the development of skin cancer, i.e. they are "pre-cancers". They can  progress to malignancies such as squamous cell carcinoma which is generally not life threatening if detected and treated early. In almost all cases, when AKs and all types of skin cancers are detected early, they are treatable and curable. That is why it is so important for individuals with AKs to be under a dermatologists care.  Frequent skin examinations are the key to early detection.

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Levulan Photodynamic Therapy is an advanced 2-step treatment for Grade 1 or 2 AKs of the face or scalp. This treatment consists of Levulan Kerastick Topical Solutions, 20% and the Blue-u Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy Illuminator, and is unique because it uses a light activated drug therapy to destroy AKs.

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 Levulan PDT

When Levulan Kerastick Topical Solution is applied to AKs, the solution is absorbed by the AK cells and is then changed to a chemical that makes these cells very sensitive to light. Then, as the AK cells are exposed to the Blu-U light, a reaction is set in motion which destroys the AK cells.

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The Levulan PDT  Procedure

The Levulan Kerastick Topical Solutions is applied to the affected areas (e.g. the face and scalp) by Dr. Atkins or Dr. Frodel.   Once the solution is applied to the AKs, you will be directed to wait the recommended time in order to allow the solution to interact with the target cells. After this period of time, you will undergo a blue light treatment.

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The BLU-U Light Treatment

The Blu-U light is does not heat the skin, but during the time under the light sensations of tingling, stinging, prickling or light burning may be felt, although the sensations subside after the light is turned off.   After the treatment, the area of AKs may become reddened and slightly tender but this improves as the days go by.

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After the Treatment

It is important to avoid sun exposure for about 48 hours as the skin remains photosensitive.  Wear a large-brimmed hat if it is necessary to be outside and remember that sunscreens will not protect against photosensitivity reactions caused by sunlight.

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Side effects?

The most common side effects include scaling/crusting, hypo/hyper-pigmentation, itching, stinging, and/or burning, erythema and edema.

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For more information, call our office at (678) 213-2220