By Renee Deneweth, PA-C
Photodynamic therapy, otherwise known as PDT, is a powerful tool for addressing and mitigating the harmful effects of a lifetime of sun exposure. This targeted treatment offers a relatively convenient solution for addressing actinic keratoses, precancerous skin lesions that may precede squamous cell carcinoma. Beyond PDT, precancerous actinic keratoses have a range of treatment options including the commonly used methods of cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen and topical fluorouracil, each with their own benefits.
The advantages of PDT are vast, including one of the most appealing benefits which is its ability to simultaneously address multiple suspicious lesions. We often describe this as “treating the entire lawn” rather than just “pulling the weeds”. Additionally, PDT allows your provider to target lesions even before they become visually apparent or palpable.
We receive a variety of questions from patients who are recommended to undergo this treatment, including:
How long am I in the office on the day of treatment?
A: Plan for several hours in the office. You can expect 2 and ½ hours, depending on how long your incubation and exposure time is set for.
How will I look after my treatment?
A: This varies for each patient and largely depends on skin type and amount of sun damage. Patient reactions vary from mild pink to bright red.
What kind of downtime is expected?
A: As mentioned, each patient’s reaction is different. Typically, you can expect 7-10 days during which your skin will undergo a process of turning pink, scaling, peeling, crusting and possibly scabbing. By day 10, most patients are no longer experiencing these symptoms.
Overall, photodynamic therapy is a highly effective method of treatment for managing the consequences of a chronic sun exposure. While it may not guarantee permanent clearance of the skin, it can significantly diminish the number and severity of precancerous and cancerous skin lesions when utilized as a preventative maintenance therapy. For more information on whether PDT is best for you, schedule an appointment with your provider at Skin Wellness Physicians.
Renee Deneweth, PA-C
Renee Deneweth, PA-C, is a Florida native who was born and raised in Orlando. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree from Florida Gulf Coast University where she graduated with Honors. Renee gained experience in adult emergency medicine working at Lee Memorial and Health Park emergency departments and obtained licensure as an Emergency Medical Technician. Soon after, Renee’s interest in dermatology was realized as she began working as a medical assistant with Skin Wellness Physicians.
Renee went on to attend PA school at her alma mater, Florida Gulf Coast University, where she graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree and was inducted into Pi Alpha, the National Honor Society for Physician Assistants. She has since returned to Skin Wellness Physicians as a Physician Assitant and has been personally trained in General Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery by Dr. Wasserman, Dr. Tremaine, and Dr. Wong.
Renee is passionate about diagnosing and treating skin conditions in all age groups and ensuring individualized care for each of her patients. She is excited to work with the growing community of Naples!
In her free time, Renee enjoys traveling, exercising, and spending time with friends and family.
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