Derma + Co. Private Practice.
CLASSICAL DERMATOLOGY
Your dermatologist team at the Colonnaden in Hamburg offers an effective and gentle alternative to surgical dermatology for the treatment of skin cancer with the innovative photodynamic therapy (PDT).
This procedure enables us to treat white skin cancer and early-detected precancerous skin lesions in a targeted and gentle manner. We combine a special cream, the so-called photosensitizer, with red cold light to deactivate diseased cells without damaging the surrounding tissue. The skin area to be treated is first prepared by laser treatment with the fractional erbium:YAG laser. The heat in combination with the light sensitizer destroys the damaged skin cells. We also offer daylight PDT as a modern, painless method.
Photodynamic therapy is almost painless and leaves hardly any scars or skin damage. This makes it ideal for skin rejuvenation and treating the smallest of wrinkles. The treatment stimulates collagen production, which gives the skin more volume and elasticity - for a fresh, youthful complexion.
By using PDT, even stubborn viral warts on the feet or hands can be treated effectively and with little pain.
We look forward to advising you comprehensively on the possibilities of photodynamic therapy in our private dermatology practice in Hamburg.
The treatment takes place in a separate 2 to 3 hour appointment. The treatment proceeds as follows:
Preparation of the skin: At the beginning of the PDT, the affected skin area is thoroughly examined again. In most cases, the skin is prepared by curettage (scraping) or laser treatment in order to better absorb the photosensitizer. This increases the effectiveness of the treatment.
Application of the photosensitizer: A special light sensitizer (e.g. δ-aminolevulinic acid) is applied to the skin to make the cells sensitive to subsequent radiation, which is crucial for the success of the treatment.
Irradiation phase: After about 30 minutes of exposure, irradiation with simulated daylight (blue, yellow and red light) follows. This produces oxygen radicals that damage cancer cells, while healthy tissue is largely spared. The treatment is less painful than previous methods.
After treatment, temporary redness, swelling, oozing, and scabs may occur, which usually lasts 3 to 5 days. Headaches are also possible. Paracetamol is recommended to treat headaches. Ibuprofen should be avoided as it can weaken the inflammatory reaction. In rare cases, skin discoloration or blistering may occur. Prophylactic treatment is advisable in patients with a history of herpes.
If laser treatment was performed before PDT, reactions may be stronger and longer lasting. Complete healing after PDT can take between 2 and 6 weeks depending on your skin type. Before the treatment, there will be a detailed discussion in which we will be happy to answer your questions and concerns.
After photodynamic therapy (PDT), certain precautions should be taken to promote optimal healing and avoid possible side effects:
Allow for recovery time: Avoid having important professional or private appointments immediately after PDT as inflammatory reactions may occur for at least five days.
Protection from sun exposure: Make sure to avoid exposing the treated skin areas to direct sun for at least 48 hours. When outdoors, use a hat and apply a mineral sunscreen to protect the skin.
Regular moisturizer supports the healing process and soothes the skin. Because light-induced skin damage is long-term, it may be necessary to repeat PDT in several months or years. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing progress and final treatment results will be assessed approximately 6 to 8 weeks after therapy.
