Photodynamic Therapy with Levulan Kerastick
What is Photodynamic
Therapy?
Photodynamic Photorejuvenation was first reported by R. Ruiz-Rodrigues, M.D., et.al. in 2002. Topical Levulan (or 5-aminolevulinic acid)
was used in conjunction with intense pulsed light (i.e., photofacial) for the treatment of actinic keratoses, which are pre-cancerous lesions of the
skin.
Why Add Photodynamic Therapy to My Treatment?
Stubborn acne and pre-cancerous cells will be treated more effectively with
greater results with combined Photodynamic Therapy.
Levulan and Acne
When used in combination with Acne Light Therapy, patients are
generally treated 3 or 4 times at three week intervals. Clinical results demonstrate 80% clearance of lesions in 60% of patients for five months to two
years.
Treatments with Levulan have also resulted in a significant reduction in sebum (oil gland) production during a 20 week study, as reported
in the August 2000 issue of Investigative Dermatology. Sebaceous glands were also reduced in size following therapy, and remained so for the duration of the
20 weeks of follow up.
Levulan and Sun Damage
When used in combination with Advanced Photofacial, patients may only require one or
two treatments to achieve acceptable results. This combination is ideal for patients who are experiencing multiple symptoms, including hyperpigmentation (sun
or age spots), pre-cancerous cells, acne breakouts, and/or significant oiliness of the skin.
What Does Levulan Feel Like?
Levulan is a
clear, odorless solution that is applied to the skin with no pain or discomfort experienced by the patient. Prior to Levulan application, the patient is
either cleansed with Acetone or a very light microdermabrasion to improve penetration of the product.
Are There Side Effects?
Each
patient can control whether or not side effects are noticeable. Photodynamic Therapy with Levulan increases the cellular sensitivity to the laser light
source used in treatment and significantly heightens sensitivity to the sun. Patients must leave the office following treatment with a generous application
of sunblock as well as a hat and scarf on to protect this sensitive skin from overreacting. Patients must then go directly home and remain completely indoors
for forty-eight hours. Non-compliance may result in serious redness, flaking, and crusting lasting at least a week. Serious burns and blisters could occur
with light exposure following treatments.
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