Photodynamic Therapy is a specific kind of scientific principle applied to medical treatment. It involves using photosensitivity, light and oxygen to treat patients in particular ways. It has been around for a number of years. Some experts claim that it was developed mainly in the 1980s as an oncological treatment. The unique facts around photodynamic therapy relate to its use as a cancer-reducing or treating agent before its current role in potential treatment of non-severe skin conditions.
Photodynamic Therapy emerged as a cancer treatment that was used to eliminate early-stage cancers and reduce or treat late stage cancer tissues. In the Photodynamic Therapy procedure, doctors use fiber optic catheters to get light energy under the skin. A photosensitizer, a drug that changes the responses of tissues to light, is often used.
Benefits of Photodynamic Therapy
Experts who look at how Photodynamic Therapy has shaped medical treatment over the years often contend that this procedure helps to target specific unhealthy cell groups with the precision of light technology. This technology has been effective in treating some kinds of cancer. Now, scientists are looking at its potential use for dealing with skin conditions.
Photodynamic Therapy has been an option for treating some types of skin cancers. Recently, it has become clear that Photodynamic Therapy may provide a solution for less serious types of skin issues. These days, similar treatments known as laser therapies are providing cosmetic dermatology treatments for patients who want to change the texture, tone or appearance of skin areas of the face or body. As a similar method, Photodynamic Therapy could also be effective in treating skin conditions like psoriasis, signs of aging or benign skin moles. Scientists are also looking at the use of Photodynamic Therapy for treating severe acne and dealing with the issue of serious scarring that acne sufferers often experience.
Side Effects
Along with these benefits, Photodynamic Therapy can also have some side effects. Patients who have specific drug allergies may develop reactions to materials are methods used in Photodynamic Therapy. This procedure may also alter the skin tone in ways that the patient did not intend. Patients with light sensitivity should also talk to their doctors about whether they are good candidates for this therapy. Like other non-surgical treatments, the use of Photodynamic Therapy under the skin should not come with high risks of dangers like scarring, long-term inflammation or infection, or skin burns. A relatively short recovery time also applies for most patients.
Talk to experienced medical staff before selecting Photodynamic Therapy or any other kind of treatment for your skin conditions. Doctors can first make a diagnosis of how severe your problem is and whether it warrants surgery or other interventions. They can also look at your medical history and allergies to help you avoid any side effects or other risks. Know about the risks and benefits of any kind of treatment before you sign on for Photodynamic Therapy or any other therapeutic in-office procedure.
