How does Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) target and destroy precancerous cells?
A topical medication is activated by a specific blue or red fluorescent light.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a specialized treatment explicitly employed for addressing precancerous lesions like actinic keratoses. The process involves a targeted, two-step approach. First, a photosensitizing topical medication is applied to the area needing treatment, allowing the abnormal cells to absorb it preferentially. Second, this medication is then chemically activated by exposure to a specific spectrum of light, typically blue or red fluorescent light. This activation generates a reactive compound that selectively destroys the precancerous cells while minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. Furthermore, this methodology has the added benefit of also promoting natural collagen production within the treated area.
