Photodynamic therapy is generally a minimally invasive procedure and is not painful. During treatment, some patients may feel a slight discomfort or burning sensation, but this is usually temporary and disappears after a short time. Pain is minimal compared to other more invasive procedures.
PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY (PDT)
Medical technology has evolved significantly in recent decades, and innovative therapies, such as photodynamic therapy, have revolutionized the way we treat certain conditions. This modern method uses light to activate a photosensitizing agent, helping to destroy abnormal or diseased cells, without affecting surrounding healthy tissue. Photodynamic therapy is effective, non-invasive and can provide remarkable results in dermatological treatments.
Price: The cost of the treatment is personalized according to the established protocol and is communicated directly within the clinic.
What is photodynamic therapy (PDT)?
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a combination of light and a photosensitizing agent to destroy abnormal cells. The photosensitizing agent is applied to the affected area, and then, by applying a specific light source, it becomes active, destroying diseased cells without affecting healthy tissue. PDT is used mainly in dermatology, but also in oncology and other medical fields.
How does the treatment work?
Photodynamic therapy consists of three main steps:
Application of the photosensitizing agent: A special substance, which makes cells sensitive to light, is applied to the affected area.
▪️Light activation: After a period of time required for the agent to be absorbed, a light source will be applied to activate the substance. The light can be of different types, depending on the condition.
▪️Destruction of abnormal cells: When the photosensitizing agent is activated by light, it produces a chemical reaction that destroys abnormal or cancerous cells, leaving healthy tissue intact.
Mechanism of photodynamic therapy (PDT)
Two individual non-toxic components are brought together to produce harmful effects on cells and tissues:
1. Photosensitizing agent
2. Laser with a specific wavelength
Effects of PDT on the immune system
▪️PDT can induce acute inflammation in the target tissue.
▪️This inflammatory reaction is important for the activation of antitumor immunity.
▪️PDT can induce immunogenic cell death, stimulating immune responses against antigens of dead cells.
▪️Antigens are captured by antigen-presenting cells (e.g., dendritic cells), which migrate to secondary lymphoid organs to present antigens to T cells.
▪️Activated T cells, along with monocytes, mast cells, and neutrophils, are recruited to the tumor microenvironment, leading to inflammation. Effector T cells can eliminate tumor cells.
Photodynamic Therapy Efficacy
▪️ The efficacy of PDT depends on several factors, including:
- Dose, type, and cellular localization of the photosensitizing agent (PS);
- Intensity, duration, and wavelength of light;
- Oxygen availability in the target area.
- Non-oncological indications of PDT
Non-oncological indications of PDT
▪️ PDT can be used in the treatment of various diseases.
▪️ It is used to treat dermatological and infectious diseases, such as:
- Psoriasis vulgaris
- Cutaneous sarcoidosis (granulomatous disease)
- Lichen planus
- Acne vulgaris and acne inversa
- Rosacea
- Sebaceous hyperplasia
- Verruca vulgaris
- Cutaneous leishmaniasis
- Condyloma acuminata (genital warts)
- Scleroderma circumscribed
Non-oncological indications of PDT (autoimmune diseases)
▪️ Gastrointestinal diseases such as:
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
▪️ Musculoskeletal disorders such as:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Synovitis
- Respiratory diseases, such as:
- Pneumonia
- COVID-19
Photosensitizers currently used
Chlorin E6
Color: Red (660 nm)
Administration: Intravenous (i.v.)
Details: Chlorin E6 is a chlorophyll derivative, very efficient in generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) after activation with red light. It has good tissue penetration, being frequently used in oncological and anti-infective treatments.
Liposomal Indocyanine Green
Color: Infrared (810 nm)
Administration: Intravenous (i.v.)
Details: Indocyanine Green (ICG) is a clinically approved dye, used for imaging and therapy. The liposomal form improves its stability and bioavailability. Infrared light allows deep tissue penetration, ideal for deep treatments.
Hypericin
Color: Yellow (589 nm)
Administration: Intravenous (i.v.), Oral
Details: Hypericin is a natural pigment extracted from St. John's wort. It has strong photosensitizing properties and a high specificity for tumor cells. It is activated by yellow light and is used both intravenously and orally.
Curcumin
Color: Blue (447 nm)
Administration: Intravenous (i.v.), Oral
Details: Curcumin, the main active compound in turmeric, has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and photosensitizing properties. Its activation requires blue light and can be administered both intravenously and orally.
Riboflavin
Color: Blue (447 nm)
Administration: Intravenous (i.v.), Oral
Details: Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is a natural photosensitizer, used mainly in ophthalmology (e.g. treatment of keratoconus) and in various antimicrobial therapies.
Methylene blue (Methylenblue)
Color: Red (660 nm)
Administration: Intravenous (i.v.), Oral
Details: Methylene blue is a classic photosensitizer with wide use in PDT. It is activated by red light and is effective against bacteria, viruses and tumor cells.
5-Aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA)
Color: Red (635 nm)
Administration: Topical, Oral
Details: 5-ALA is a metabolic precursor that is converted to protoporphyrin IX (an active photosensitizer). It is used topically or orally and is important in dermatological treatments and in neurosurgery for guided tumor resection.
What conditions can be treated with photodynamic therapy?
Photodynamic therapy is extremely effective in dermatological treatments and can be used for a variety of conditions:
Precancerous lesions and skin cancer
PDT is used to treat precancerous lesions, such as actinic keratosis or basal cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer). Photodynamic therapy can destroy abnormal cells before they develop into a more serious form of cancer.
Severe Acne
Severe acne can be treated with PDT, especially in cases where topical treatments have not been effective. Photodynamic therapy reduces inflammation, regulates sebum production, and fights acne-causing bacteria, helping to improve the appearance of the skin.
Other Dermatological Conditions
Photodynamic therapy can also be used to treat other dermatological conditions, such as:
▪️Psoriasis
▪️Seborrheic dermatitis
▪️Injuries caused by prolonged sun exposure
Benefits of Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy brings multiple advantages, being an innovative, safe, and effective treatment method:
Minimally invasive treatment
PDT is a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical procedures. It does not require incisions and usually does not leave scars, making it an attractive option for patients.
High precision and low side effects
Because photodynamic therapy directly targets abnormal cells, the risk of damage to healthy tissue is minimal. Side effects are also usually low and temporary.
Short recovery time
Recovery from photodynamic therapy is quick, and most patients can resume normal activities within a short time. Side effects, such as rosacea or skin sensitivity, usually disappear within a few days.
How does a photodynamic therapy session work?
A photodynamic therapy session is quite simple and non-invasive. In the first stage, the specialist will apply the photosensitizing agent to the affected area. Then, the patient will wait a period of time, depending on the type of treatment and the area being treated, for the substance to be absorbed. This is followed by the application of specific light, which will activate the photosensitizing agent and begin the process of destroying abnormal cells. The procedure generally lasts between 15 and 30 minutes.
What should you do before treatment?
Before starting photodynamic therapy, it is important to follow some recommendations:
▪️Avoid sun exposure at least a few days before treatment.
▪️Inform the specialist about any dermatological treatments you are undergoing or allergies to certain substances.
▪️Make sure the treated area is clean and dry, without traces of cosmetics or makeup.
Post-treatment instructions
After your photodynamic therapy session, it is essential to follow the instructions to ensure a quick and effective recovery:
▪️Avoid direct exposure to the sun or strong light sources in the days following your treatment.
▪️Apply moisturizers and sunscreen.
▪️Do not rub or irritate the treated area.
▪️Follow your doctor’s recommendations for post-treatment care.
Possible side effects and risks
Although photodynamic therapy is considered safe, some minor side effects may occur, such as:
▪️Temporary redness and irritation of the skin
▪️Increased sensitivity to light
▪️Mild pain or burning sensations
These effects are usually temporary and disappear within a few days. In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur, which will be managed by your doctor.
Why choose our clinic?
At Quantica720°, we offer the most advanced photodynamic therapy treatments, using state-of-the-art equipment and under the supervision of specialized medical personnel. By choosing Quantica720°, you benefit from:
▪️Personalized evaluation and treatments tailored to your needs
▪️A safe and comfortable environment
▪️Continuous support throughout the treatment
▪️Visible results and guaranteed satisfaction
Photodynamic therapy is an effective, safe and minimally invasive solution for dermatological treatments. If you want healthy, flawless skin, do not hesitate to schedule a consultation at Quantica720°.
Schedule now and benefit from high-quality treatments at our clinic!
Frequently asked questions for PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY (PDT)
The number of sessions required depends on the type of condition and the skin's response to treatment. Generally, for mild dermatological treatments, between 1 and 3 sessions are required. In more serious cases, such as skin cancer or severe acne, more sessions may be required, spaced a few weeks apart. The specialist will establish a personalized treatment plan based on your needs.
Photodynamic therapy is recommended for dermatological treatments such as:
▪️ Precancerous lesions and skin cancer
▪️ Severe acne or acne scars
▪️ Other dermatological conditions, such as psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis
It is important to consult a specialist to determine if PDT is right for you and to obtain the best results.