Photodynamic therapy uses a photosensitizing agent and red laser light to kill cells. It is used as a treatment for certain types of cancer and for severe cases of acne. For lung, esophageal or gastric cancer, the patient receives an injection of a photosensitizing drug, and the doctor later inserts an endoscope and shines laser light onto the diseased tissue. For skin cancer and for acne, the practitioner applies a cream that makes the targeted cells more sensitive to light, then shines laser light onto the skin. Negative effects depend on the purpose of the photodynamic therapy.
Internal Cancer Treatment Side Effects
After photodynamic therapy treatments for internal cancers, one side effect involves swelling and inflammation in and around the esophagus, according to the Mayo Clinic. Related side effects include chest discomfort, nausea, constipation and fever. These symptoms can be controlled with pain relievers and other medications. Photosensitivity, or sensitivity to light, also occurs and lasts about four weeks. The patient must avoid exposure to bright light to prevent sunburn, swelling and eye irritation. Macmillan Cancer Support explains that patients can safely go outside very early in the morning or after sunset and can use low-level artificial light indoors at a maximum of 60 watts. Patients must even avoid exposure to bright light through glass, at least for the first few days.
Skin Cancer Treatment Side Effects
Skin cancer treatment with photodynamic therapy also causes photosensitivity, according to Macmillan Cancer Support, but only for a day or two. The patient should avoid exposure to sunlight and bright artificial light during this time. He also should not wash the treated skin for 36 hours and avoid rubbing the area until it heals. An additional negative effect can be a burning sensation during the photodynamic therapy. This can be relieved with a cooling fan or a water spray, as well as pain medication or local anesthesia to numb the area.
Acne Treatment Side Effects
Photodynamic therapy for acne, as performed by the Beverly Hills Dermatology Clinic, requires the client to stay out of the sun for 48 hours after treatment. The clinic recommends having the procedure performed when the client can leave the facility after sunset to avoid serious sunburn. The usual side effects involve up to three days of mild pinkness and light flaking.
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