Photodynamic therapy is a phototherapy that utilizes light-sensitive nontoxic agents that are selectively exposed to a light source. These agents then become toxic to the diseased or cancerous cells leaving healthy cells and tissue unaffected. PDT Treatment in Minneapolis, MN is used to treat skin cancer and other skin ailments caused by fungi, bacteria, and viruses. PDT Treatment in Minneapolis, MN works by using a combination of a light source, a photosensitizing compound, and oxygen in tissues. After the photosensitizer is absorbed by infected cells, a light source is used to destroy these cells.
PDT is useful for the treatment of acne, skin cancer, psoriasis, wrinkles, rosacea, sun damage, warts, and numerous other skin ailments. To treat these skin conditions a photosensitizing agent is applied directly to the skin. When it is absorbed the light source is used to destroy infected cells. However, for the treatment of skin cancer the photo-sensitizing agent is injected intravenously before it is stimulated. After an incubation period, this substance will only remain in diseased cells. The light source is then directed at targeted areas by using either a fiber optic catheter or an endoscope. The tumor absorbs the light and utilizes the oxygen in skin tissue to kill the unhealthy cancer cells. It also destroys blood vessels supplying the tumor with nutrients and kick starts the immune system to fight the tumor.
PDT treatment is a preferred treatment for skin problems and cancer due to its low toxicity and because it is less invasive than other treatments. This treatment can cause pain, a burning sensation, and redness. These symptoms are minor compared to the side effects of other cancer treatments and subside in a short amount of time.
PDT Treatment in Minneapolis, MN has numerous benefits. It does not damage healthy cells and recovery from the procedure is quick. No hospital stay is required, because the procedure can be done quickly right in the dermatologists office. Like other treatments, it may have to be performed numerous times to obtain the best results. However, this procedure performed at Academic Dermatology, allows the need for very little recovery time and little if any missed time from work or school making it a preferable treatment for numerous skin ailments. Read more.
