Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) combines a topical photosensitizing medication with targeted light exposure to destroy abnormal cells. It's one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for actinic keratoses and precancerous lesions.
Treatment at a Glance
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
~90min
Total in-office time
70–80%
AK clearance per session
About the Treatment
What Is Photodynamic Therapy?
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an in-office, non-invasive medical treatment that combines a topical photosensitizing medication with targeted light exposure to destroy abnormal and precancerous cells. OnSpot offers two FDA-approved PDT options — blue light and red light — so your provider can recommend whichever best fits your skin and the extent of your sun damage.
Blue Light PDT
Blue Light PDT: Levulan® + BLU-U®
For blue light PDT, we use the FDA-approved Levulan® Kerastick® (aminolevulinic acid) applied to the skin, followed by BLU-U® blue light activation.
Red Light PDT
Red Light PDT: AMELUZ® + RhodoLED®
For red light PDT, we use AMELUZ® (aminolevulinic acid HCl) topical gel, 10%, applied to the treatment area by your provider. After the prescribed incubation period, the area is illuminated with the RhodoLED® red light, activating the medication within the targeted cells. AMELUZ® + RhodoLED® is FDA-approved for mild-to-moderate actinic keratoses of the face and scalp, and can treat individual AK lesions or an entire field of sun-damaged skin — including areas of field cancerization, not just visible spots. It's a non-surgical, in-office, physician-directed option for chronic sun damage using a specialized narrowband red-light source.
Why It Matters in Florida
Sun Damage Is a Florida Reality
Southwest Florida's year-round UV exposure makes cumulative sun damage one of the most common concerns our patients face. Actinic keratoses — rough, scaly patches caused by years of sun exposure — are precancerous lesions that can progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. PDT is one of the most effective ways to address multiple lesions in a single session.
Safety Information
AMELUZ® Important Safety Information
AMELUZ® is used in combination with photodynamic therapy using BF-RhodoLED® or RhodoLED® XL for lesion-directed and field-directed treatment of mild-to-moderate actinic keratoses of the face and scalp. Treatment may cause reactions at the application site, including redness, pain or burning, irritation, swelling, itching, peeling, scabbing, hardening of the skin, or blisters. Patients should follow their provider's instructions regarding light avoidance following treatment. Ask your dermatology provider about additional warnings, precautions, and whether AMELUZ® PDT is appropriate for you.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How many PDT sessions will I need?
Is PDT painful?
Is there downtime after PDT?
What's the difference between blue light and red light PDT?
Learn More
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