Ultraviolet radiation has harmful effects on our skin. In the summer months, it is important to remember that a 15-minute exposure to the sun can already trigger the release of free radicals that cause oxidative damage to cell membranes and nuclear DNA.
Initially this oxidative damage will not be visible to the naked eye, but after repeated exposure, the damage will accumulate and over the years can lead to precancerous lesions such as actinic keratoses. Over time, these can degenerate into malignant lesions, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Photodynamic therapy is recognized as an effective new tool in the treatment of oncologic and non-oncologic conditions.
Photodynamic therapy, oncologic innovation
Photodynamic therapy is a new treatment to treat precancerous skin lesions selectively by activating the immune system, which will destroy the atypical cells.
It consists of the application of a photosensitive cream through an occlusive patch, which will be selectively captured by the atypical or affected cells and then irradiating the area with a red light source. A photochemical reaction is then triggered which will result in the release of cytotoxic free radicals and the activation of the patient’s own immune system, which will ultimately destroy the atypical cells.
This treatment obtains excellent cosmetic results and can also be used as a complement to surgery to reduce the size of the lesion. A scab will appear after the session and will fall off after 7-10 days.
9 frequently asked questions about photodynamic therapy
- Does it require anesthesia?
It is a non-invasive treatment that only requires topical anesthesia in cream. - Are any precautions necessary?
Sun protection is advised, as well as following your doctor’s or dermatologist’s recommendations and informing him/her if you detect any changes in your skin. - How many sessions are needed?
The number of sessions will depend on the pathology to be treated, but one session is usually enough. - Can I go to work the day after the session?
If the lesion is in a visible area, you will have swelling and a scab for about 7 days. - How long does the treatment last?
The cream is placed in occlusion for about 3 hours and then the lesion is illuminated for 10 minutes. - How long do the effects last?
They should be definitive, but the patient will need to have periodic check-ups to ensure that the lesion has been completely eliminated. - What other treatments can be combined with to optimize the effect?
It can be combined with previous surgery to reduce the size of the tumor and make the intervention simpler and with less risk of complications. - Are there any contraindications to the treatment?
Not all tumors can be treated with this method. For example, it is contraindicated in the case of melanoma. - How much does photodynamic therapy cost?
The price of photodynamic therapy is 600 euros per session (product included).