Case Report: Treating Diffuse Actinic Keratoses With Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) in Katy & Houston, Texas
At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, Texas, we frequently care for patients with sun-related skin damage, including actinic keratoses (AKs). These lesions are common in adults with cumulative sun exposure and are considered precancerous, making early detection and treatment essential.
Patient Background
A 67-year-old female presented for a follow-up visit for diffuse actinic keratoses of the face. She had previously been evaluated on November 17, 2025, at which time she underwent her first session of photodynamic therapy (PDT) using red light. She returned for continued evaluation and treatment due to the extent of sun damage and the presence of persistent precancerous lesions.
Clinical Examination
A focused skin examination of the face revealed:
Diffuse erythematous papules
Hyperkeratotic scaling
Lesions distributed across the face and middle sternum
These findings were consistent with diffuse actinic keratoses, a condition commonly seen in patients with long-term sun exposure in sunny climates like Houston and Katy, Texas.
Treatment Plan: Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) – Red Light
Given the number and distribution of lesions, photodynamic therapy (PDT) was selected as an effective field treatment.
PDT Treatment Details:
Treatment Number: 2
Medication Used: Ameluz (1 tube, applied without occlusion)
Incubation Time: 0 minutes
Light Source: 635 nm LED (Red Light)
Illumination Time: 30 minutes
Prior to application, hyperkeratotic lesions were gently curetted to enhance medication penetration. The skin was cleansed and prepped, and protective eyewear was applied. The patient tolerated the procedure well.
Medical Necessity:
Actinic keratoses are precancerous lesions that may progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. PDT allows treatment of visible and subclinical lesions across a broad area, making it ideal for diffuse sun damage.
Additional Treatment: Liquid Nitrogen Cryotherapy
In addition to PDT, one thicker lesion on the middle sternum was treated with liquid nitrogen cryotherapy, using three freeze–thaw cycles. Cryotherapy remains an effective option for isolated or resistant actinic keratoses.
Post-Treatment Care & Expectations
The patient was counseled on post-procedure care, including:
Avoiding sunlight for 48 hours
Using strict sun protection
Expecting temporary redness, discomfort, and possible scabbing
These effects are normal and indicate that the treatment is working.
Follow-Up
The patient will return for a follow-up visit in one month to assess response and determine if additional treatment is needed.
Expert Actinic Keratosis Care in Katy & Houston, Texas
At Village Dermatology, we offer advanced treatments such as photodynamic therapy, cryotherapy, and full skin cancer screenings to help prevent skin cancer and restore healthy skin. If you have rough, scaly patches or sun-damaged skin, early evaluation is key.
📍 Convenient locations serving Katy and Houston, Texas
