PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY TREATMENT: A NON-INVASIVE PROCEDURE TO DESTROY PRECANCEROUS CELLS CAUSED BY SUN DAMAGE AND EARLY BASAL CELL CARCINOMA

WHAT: According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, approximately 58 million Americans have Actinic Keratosis (AK), dry patches on the skin caused by exposure to ultra-violet rays. Untreated AK can advance to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the second most common form of skin cancer, and some experts believe they are actually the earliest stage of SCC. Early and proactive treatment of AK is vital to prevent this dangerous form of skin cancer.

The Skin Cancer and Reconstructive Surgery Center (SCARS), known for its cutting-edge technology, patient care, and clinical education, is building on its success offering non-surgical skin cancer therapy with the introduction of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). Designed to treat the face and scalp for AK, this treatment uses a light activated medication to destroy precancerous lesions.

Simon Madorsky, M.D., medical director at the Skin Cancer and Reconstructive Surgery Center, has thoroughly researched the effectiveness of PDT for the treatment of actinic keratosis, and has had the PDT treatment himself. He is also the first and only doctor in Southern California to use PDT for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma. A form of the PDT treatment is also used in conjunction with radiation and chemotherapy to treat active cancer. The low reimbursement from U.S. insurance companies for PDT has deterred many dermatologic practices from offering this important therapy but it is actively used in many European countries.

KEY FACTS: SCARS in Newport Beach, Calif. is advocating PDT for anyone with signs of AK or concerns about extensive sun exposure.

● How it Works: A topical medication is first absorbed by the AK cells where it is converted to a chemical that makes the cells extremely sensitive to light. When the AK cells are exposed to the BLU-U Blue Light Illuminator, a reaction occurs which destroys the AK cells.

● Virtually Pain-Free, No Scarring and Minimal Temporary Markings: Compared to other treatments, like liquid nitrogen, 5-FU or Aldara, PDT is virtually painless and the side effects are minimal. Patients may experience a slight stinging, tingling or warm sensation during. A cosmetically conscious treatment, PDT leaves no scars. Patients may feel a burning or stinging sensation for 24 hours and slight redness and crusting for up to 5 days following the treatment.

● Straightforward Outpatient Procedure: In an initial office visit, the medication is applied to the lesions. At a second visit the following day, the medicated area is illuminated with the BLU-U® Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy Illuminator for about 15 minutes.

● Cost-Effective and Patient-Friendly: The procedure costs less than surgery and is covered by most insurance.

OTHER INFO: The Skin Cancer and Reconstructive Surgery Center located in Newport Beach, Calif., offers a comprehensive array of innovative techniques for skin care and skin cancer treatments.  Dedicated to providing excellence in patient care, clinical education and research, the center includes an ambulatory surgical facility accredited by the Joint Commission, two operating rooms, private pre-op and recovery rooms, a CLIA certified Mohs Laboratory (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments), and a Radiation Therapy Suite. Through a combination of both invasive surgical and non-invasive non-surgical treatments, the Skin Cancer and Reconstructive Surgery Center provides patients with a holistic approach to treat, reconstruct and improve the appearance of the skin. 

For more information, visit www.ocskincancer.com.