Photodynamic treatment of malignant tumors

Sometimes Patients suffering from malignant skin cancers cannot undergo laser therapy or surgery. This is when photodynamic therapy (PTD) comes to the rescue, which in some cases can also be an alternative treatment to more invasive solutions.

The underlying principle of photodynamic therapy is that it allows cancer cells to be sensitized to light, which allows them to be destroyed by radiation. The photodynamic method is characterized by a high degree of effectiveness and safety, as well as non-invasiveness. As a result, Patients willingly choose this form of treatment.

Indications for photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic method is recommended primarily to Patients whose condition allows it and can choose this form of therapy because of its numerous advantages – effectiveness, non-invasiveness, precision and safety. PTD therapy is also offered to those Patients who, for various reasons, cannot undertake other forms of treatment. Photodynamic method proves best in the treatment of tumors located on the top layer of the skin. Based on the examination results and the Patient’s preferences, the physician and the Patient determine whether this type of treatment is optimal for the individual case. Photodynamic therapy is usually used to treat:

• most cases of basal cell carcinoma and some types of squamous cell carcinoma
• solar keratosis
• Bowen diseases
• cancerous lesions located in problem areas, such as on the eyelids or wings nose.

PTD technology

This technology is based on an innovative use of light. Thanks to the use of photosensitizer, a light-sensitive chemical substance that penetrates the affected skin, porphyrin, an extremely light-sensitive substance, is produced in cancer cells. Under the influence of light with appropriately selected wavelength, photosensitizer activates, triggering the oxidation process in the affected skin cells, which leads to their destruction. It is worth mentioning that this method is very precise, so there is no risk of damaging healthy cells. The effectiveness of photodynamic method is comparable to the surgical removal of skin cancer, but in contrast to surgery, in most cases does not leave traces and scars.

Course of photodynamic treatment

Photodynamic treatment is performed in two stages:

• Application of photosensitizer cream – the dermatologist carefully applies photosensitizer cream to the affected tissue and then covers the treated area with an occlusive dressing so that the substance can properly penetrate the skin. This stage lasts about 3 hours and the Patient may feel a slight burning sensation. During this time the photosensitizer is absorbed by the skin, becoming the active chemical.
• Exposure – After the dressing is removed, the physician begins to expose the lesion using a special lamp. This procedure takes about 10-15 minutes. During this time cancer cells are destroyed and healthy skin remains intact. After the procedure, a dressing is again applied to avoid further exposure of the treated skin to light. The dressing can usually be removed after 2 days.

Indications before photodynamic treatment

Before photodynamic therapy, the Patient should avoid tanning and the use of photosensitizing drugs and herbs. Self-tanning creams and peelings should not be used a week before the treatment.

Indications after PTD therapy

To ensure the highest degree of safety and treatment effectiveness, after the procedure the Patient should not wet the dressing that covers the treated area. After the dressing is removed, which is after about two days, the skin should be washed with gentle cleansers and thoroughly moisturized. The treated area should not be rubbed or touched. SPF 50 sunscreen should also be applied and prolonged soaking of the treated area should be avoided until it has healed.

Recovery

Patients may experience pain at the radiation site for a few days after treatment. Swelling and redness may occur, and even ulceration and bruising. The Patient does not require a special period of convalescence – it is possible to return to daily activities, remembering that the dressing should not be removed for 2 days.

Contraindications

Despite its high safety profile and noninvasiveness, PDT therapy is not indicated in Patients:

• pregnant
• allergic to peanuts because PDT cream may contain peanut oil
• sensitive to light

It is worth remembering that the photodynamic method is one of the options in the fight against skin cancer. However, choosing the most effective method depends on many factors, including the specifics of cancer or the Patient’s health condition. Our dermatologist will help you choose the right therapy, taking all relevant factors into account. He or she will also guide you through the entire treatment process so that your recovery is quick and stress-free.

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