Treating Precancerous Sun Damage with Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): A Patient Success Story
Advanced Actinic Keratosis Treatment in Katy and Houston, Texas
Years of sun exposure can lead to the development of rough, scaly spots known as actinic keratoses (AKs). These precancerous lesions are extremely common and can increase the risk of developing certain forms of skin cancer if left untreated.
At Village Dermatology, we recently followed a 66-year-old patient undergoing her second session of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) to treat widespread actinic keratoses affecting the face, nose, and lips.
Patient Presentation
The patient returned for her second PDT treatment after previously undergoing red-light photodynamic therapy several weeks earlier.
She had a history of multiple actinic keratoses located on:
The face
The nose
The lips
These lesions appeared as rough, erythematous patches with overlying scale—classic features of sun-damaged precancerous skin.
Prior treatments included cryotherapy, but due to the extent of sun damage, field treatment with PDT was recommended.
What Are Actinic Keratoses?
Actinic keratoses are rough, scaly growths caused by cumulative ultraviolet (UV) damage from years of sun exposure.
They commonly develop on:
Face
Nose
Lips
Ears
Scalp
Chest
Forearms
Hands
Although many AKs remain stable, some can progress into squamous cell carcinoma, making early treatment important.
Why Photodynamic Therapy Is an Excellent Treatment Option
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) treats not only visible actinic keratoses but also microscopic sun damage that may not yet be visible.
Benefits of PDT include:
Treatment of large areas of damaged skin
Improved skin texture and tone
Reduction of precancerous lesions
Minimal downtime compared to surgery
Excellent cosmetic outcomes
For patients with extensive sun damage, PDT often provides a more comprehensive approach than treating individual lesions one at a time.
PDT Treatment Session #2
During this visit, the patient underwent her second session of red-light PDT.
Preparation
Before treatment, hyperkeratotic lesions were gently curetted to remove excess scale and improve medication penetration.
The treatment area was then cleansed and prepared.
Application of Ameluz®
One tube of Ameluz® (aminolevulinic acid gel) was applied to the:
Face
Nose
Lips
The medication selectively accumulates within abnormal sun-damaged cells.
Red-Light Illumination
Following application, the treatment area was exposed to a 635 nm red LED light source for 30 minutes.
Activation of the medication produces a photochemical reaction that destroys precancerous cells while minimizing injury to surrounding healthy tissue.
What Patients Can Expect After PDT
Patients commonly experience temporary reactions following treatment, including:
Redness
Mild swelling
Burning or stinging sensations
Crusting
Peeling
Sunburn-like discomfort
These reactions are expected and indicate that the treatment is working.
Most patients notice gradual improvement over the following days to weeks.
Critical Post-Treatment Instructions
Sun avoidance is extremely important after PDT.
Patients are instructed to:
Avoid direct sunlight for 48 hours
Wear protective hats and clothing
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen
Remain indoors when possible during the immediate recovery period
Sun exposure during this timeframe can significantly increase discomfort and inflammation.
Why Full Face Treatment Matters
Many patients have extensive sun damage beyond the lesions that are visible to the naked eye.
Field therapy with PDT helps address:
Visible actinic keratoses
Early precancerous changes
Subclinical sun damage
Future lesion development
This comprehensive treatment strategy often results in healthier skin and fewer future procedures.
Skin Cancer Prevention Starts Early
Actinic keratoses serve as a warning sign that significant UV damage has occurred.
Patients with AKs should:
Schedule regular skin examinations
Perform monthly skin self-checks
Wear daily sunscreen SPF 30+
Avoid tanning beds
Seek evaluation for any changing lesions
Early detection and treatment remain the most effective strategies for preventing skin cancer.
Expert PDT Treatment in Katy and Houston
At Village Dermatology, we offer advanced Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), cryotherapy, skin cancer screenings, and comprehensive treatment for actinic keratoses throughout Katy, Houston, and surrounding Texas communities.
If you have rough, scaly spots that may represent sun damage or precancerous lesions, schedule an appointment with our dermatology team to learn whether PDT may be right for you.
