Photodynamic therapy is a revolutionary new treatment for skin cancers, especially in its early stages.

Experts at The London Clinic, known for its pioneering of new treatments, have been using photodynamic therapy (PDT) with patients who have skin cancer. The new treatment has two components - a light-sensitive compound called a porphyrin, and an intense light source.

First the porphyrin is painted on to the affected area of skin and left for four to six hours. Then the light is directed to the painted area for up to 16 minutes. The porphyrin absorbs the light and then delivers this energy to the tumor, which destroys any malignant tissue. Surrounding healthy tissue is left unaffected by the treatment.

PDT is easy on the patient - unlike other cancer treatments. It produces just a 'pins and needles' sensation, which can be dealt with readily by using a local anaesthetic.

Source

The London Clinic 6th February 2003