What is photodynamic therapy used to treat?

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a two-stage treatment combining light energy with photosensitizers (light-sensitive drugs) that destroy cells after light activation. It doesn’t involve any surgery.

PDT isn’t widely available in the UK, but it’s a licensed and proven non-invasive treatment for various medical conditions, including pre-cancerous skin conditions such as Bowen’s disease, actinic keratoses, and precancerous field change, as well as some forms of skin cancer such as basal cell carcinoma. It can also help with certain non-cancerous skin conditions such as acne and also improve the skin’s cosmetic appearance.

PDT isn’t suitable for everyone. For example, it’s unsuitable for treating deep basal cell cancers or squamous cell skin cancers. It’s not safe to use if you’re pregnant or have certain blood diseases.