Photodynamic Therapy for Actinic Keratosis: Can We Make It Painless?
Actinic keratosis (AK), a common result of sun damage, can be a warning sign for squamous cell carcinoma. With skin cancer rates on the rise, finding effective and tolerable treatments is more important than ever. Among the many options, photodynamic therapy (PDT) stands out for treating widespread or “field” damage caused by UV exposure.
PDT works by applying a light-sensitive cream (like 5-ALA or MAL), letting it absorb, and then exposing the area to red or blue light. While both lights are effective, traditional PDT often comes with significant pain and inflammation. That’s where “painless” PDT enters the conversation.
This newer approach reduces incubation time and prolongs light exposure, resulting in less buildup of protoporphyrin IX, a compound linked to treatment pain. The result? Similar effectiveness, but with far greater patient comfort.
Larger trials are still needed, but painless PDT may offer a more tolerable way to treat AK, without sacrificing results.
