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WHAT IS PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY (PDT)?
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive procedure that is licensed for the treatment of Non Melanoma Skin Cancers (NMSC). It involves the topical application of a photo-sensitiser prodrug combined with a light source to selectively destroy abnormal/ damaged cells and tissue.
Accumulating evidence supports the use of PDT for acne, more severe inflammatory conditions and photodamage, although clinical protocols for these indications are not yet defined.
Independently the photosensitiser prodrug and light source are harmlesss. When the prodrug is exposed to the light source, it activates or ‘turns on’ a free radical (ROS) reaction which selectively destroys target cells.
Photodynamic Therapy is a widely used therapeutic option as an alternative to surgical intervention for certain dermatological indications. Patient satisfaction is high, downtime is low and cosmetic outcomes are proven and excellent.
KEY INDICATIONS FOR PDT:
The following indications are well evidenced for successful treatment outcomes and supported by independent clinical data.
● Actinic Keratosis (AK)
● Non-hyperkeratotic Keratosis
● Bowens disease
● Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
● Superficial Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Other dermatological inflammatory indications in early stages of research showing promising treatment outcomes include:
● Acne Vulgaris
● Rosacea
● Sebaceous Hyperplasia
● Hidradentis Suppurativa
● Psoriasis
● Lichen Planus
● Lichen Sclerosis
● Scleroderma
● Cutaneous Sarcoidosis
● Necrobiosis Lipoidica
● Granuloma Annulare
● Fungal infections
● Dermatitis
● Folliculitis
● Hypertrophic scars
● Viral Warts
● Alopecia Areata
● Photodamage
HOW DOES PDT WORK?
A typical PDT treatment is characterised by the application of a topical chemical compound called 5-Aminolevulinic Acid (5-ALA) or its methylated ester, Methyl Aminolevulinate (MAL) to the affected area.
5-ALA penetrates the stratum corneum and is selectively absorbed by actinically damaged skin cells, non-melanoma skin cancer cells and the pilosebaceous units of the skin. The skin converts the ALA to its active form; a natural intracellular photosensitiser called Protoporphyrin IX.
Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) is naturally occurring in all living cells in small amounts as a precursor of heme. Heme makes up part of the molecule haemoglobin which turns blood red and transports oxygen around the body and is characterised by its ability to carry iron.
PpIX accumulates in damaged and highly proliferative epidermal cells as well as melanin, blood vessels and sebaceous glands. Damaged cells naturally produce more PpIX and excessive levels can cause photosensitivity of the skin.
Following a specified accumulation period (usually up to 3 hours), the affected area is irradiated by a specific wavelength of light and PpIX is oxidised through a process called photobleaching. During this process, singlet oxygen and free radicals are generated leading to apoptosis (selective cell death). Note only target cells and tissue are damaged during this process but the skin can remain photosensitive for up to 48 hours post treatment.
As a result of the PDT treatment, the damaged cells slough off, allowing new healthy cells to form.
Photodynamic Therapy
Peppermint has invested in the best medical grade LED Phototherapy equipment on the market and probably the world. It's called the Tir-Wave MD, made by a British company called Dermalux.
Dermalux has produced the only machine in the world that can use all the required colours at the same time which gives outstanding results.
The Tri-Wave MD is medical grade allowing Peppermint to treat alternative medical issues with the help of photosensitive medication (Metvix).
As we are a private registered clinic we do not hold the waiting lists of the NHS. If you have an issue and are under the care of dermatology nurse or consultant then you can be refer to us to get the treatment faster.
Requirements for treatment:
- Consultation with lead practitioner at Peppermint
- Detailed referral outlining diagnosis from dermatologist nurse, consultant or GP
- Required treatment plan, sessions and power (Joules) settings (if applicable) for each LED colour - RED, BLUE & NIR
- Prescription in your name for photosensitive medication - Metvix (Methyl Aminolevulinate - MAL)
If you have been researching alternative treatments and found our page, and think this treatment may benefit you, you can then speak to your nurse, consultant or GP. Ask them to look at our page to back up your request. Your specialist can then meet our requirements for treatment.
If you have any questions then please drop us a WhatsApp or email.
