Photodynamic therapy was initially used to treat skin cancer. While that’s still its primary use, it’s also used to treat other types of cancers and conditions.
FDA-Approved Uses
PDT has been approved to treat the following conditions.
Actinic Keratoses (Precancerous Skin Lesions) PDT is approved for treating actinic keratoses, particularly on the face, scalp, and arms, says Aaron Farberg, MDa double board-certified dermatologist who specializes in skin cancer, inflammatory diseases, and cosmetic dermatology at Bare Dermatology in Dallas.
Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Bowen’s Disease PTD is approved to treat superficial basal cell carcinoma and Bowen’s disease, also known as squamous cell carcinoma in situ, says Veena Vanchinathan, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in the Bay Area of California and a member of the American Academy of Dermatology.
“Photodynamic therapy is effective for these conditions because it selectively destroys abnormal cells while sparing healthy tissue,” says Dr. Vanchinathan.
Promising Off‑Label Uses
Research into off-label uses for PDT have found it to be effective for:
Rosacea and Other Skin Conditions “Some other less common, off-label uses for PDT include treating rosaceaphotoaging of skin (skin changes due to sun damage), and warts,” says Vanchinathan.
Antimicrobial Uses for Infections “PDT is showing potential in wound healing and stimulating the body’s immune response to fight diseases,” says Bruce Robinson, MDa board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
