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DownloadThis leaflet aims to provide you with information on what you may experience with Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) and how to care for the area after treatment with PDT.
Photodynamic therapy is a very effective treatment for certain types of pre cancerous lesions and non melanoma skin cancers. It is a non invasive treatment. This means that the lesions will be treated non surgically.
There are 2 types of treatment. Treatment with a red lamp and treatment using natural daylight.
The consultant might have discussed applying a moisturiser to the area that will be treated, either by giving you a sample or prescription. If so, then please apply this 3 to 4 days before you treatment day. However please do apply it not on the actual day of treatment.
This will depend on the type of lesion you have. It will also depend on the type of treatment you have. You may need just 1 treatment, or photodynamic therapy may be required again 1 week later. You should have been told how many and what type of treatment you will need at your appointment with the consultant.
You will be seen by a dermatology nurse specialist who will carry out the procedure. It will be carried out in 2 stages.
If you have treatment with the red lamp:
The first stage of treatment will involve the nurse cleaning the area to be treated and removing any scale (dead skin) from the lesion.
A special light acting cream will then be applied to the area, which will be covered with a dressing. You will then be asked to return to the department after 3 hours.
If you have treatment with daylight:
The first stage will involve a special sunscreen will be applied to ALL areas exposed to daylight. Any scale or dead skin will be removed.
A special light acting cream will be applied thinly to all areas requiring treatment. This will cause a reaction, and will destroy any abnormal cells that are present.
This should be left in place and not rubbed off. You will then be asked to go outside for 2 hours.
No. However, if you feel uncomfortable or unwell you must return to the nurse as soon as possible.
If you are treated with the red lamp:
After 3 hours, you will need to return to the department for the second stage of the treatment.
The area will be cleaned again and a red light will be shined onto the area for approximately 10 minutes.
This will cause a reaction, and will destroy any abnormal cells that are present.
If you are treated with daylight:
After 2 hours you will need to return to the department. The area treated will be washed. You will be asked a few questions about your experience of the reatment.
If you are treated with the red lamp:
You may experience some discomfort during the treatment. Usually described as a tingling pain, or burning sensation. This will be reduced by the nurse using a cold spray of water whilst the light is on.
This discomfort may continue for up to 24 hours after your treatment. You may wish to take some painkillers that suit you.
If you are treated with daylight:
Most people experience a mild sensation of tingling and tightness. Most people say it is pain free.
Soon after the treatment you will be able to go home.
If you are treated with the red lamp:
The treated area will be covered with a dressing. Keep this area dry, clean and covered for 48 hours. If a dressing is not practical, please ensure the area is protected by sun cream (SPF +25).
To avoid infection, please wash your hands before removing the dressing or touching the area at any time.
If you are treated with daylight:
The area will not require a dressing. Please ensure the area is covered with clothing I.E. a hat for your head or protected by sun cream.
This will only apply if you have been treated with the red lamp.
The area may weep a little. A crust on the area may have formed. This is normal so do not be alarmed. Healing takes place under the crust so it is important not to disturb it. Once the area has healed, the crust will fall off naturally.
ou may prefer to use a dressing during this process, but it is not necessary.
If you wish, you can use moisturizer on the area. If you choose to do so, please use a non perfumed product. For example: E45.
Please remember it is important not to use this within the first 48 hours after treatment.
A patient who has had this type of lesion is more at risk of developing new lesions. Therefore you are advised to check your skin regularly and report any change to your doctor.
You should adopt a regime of applying sun protection whenever you are exposed to the sun. This will include applying sun screen (SPF+25) on all parts of your skin that are exposed. For example: face, neck and hands, and wearing protective clothing.
If you have any concerns following your treatment, please call the telephone numbers below:
Joanne Ashton (Dermatology SNP / Sister). Brighton General Hospital 01273 665035.
01273 665030 (Surgery Bookings Clerks).
If you would like to find out more about Photodynamic Therapy, you may find the following websites helpful:
The information here is for guidance purposes only and is in no way intended to replace professional clinical advice by a qualified practitioner.
This information is for patients receiving treatment at Brighton and Haywards Heath.
Review Date: January 2023
