PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY (PDT)

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an noninvasive treatment that utilizes a photosensitizing molecule and a light source to activate the applied drug. Aminolevulinic Acid (marketed as Levulan Kerastick) is commonly used when treating extramammary Paget’s disease (EMPD).  

PDT essentially has three steps. First, a light-sensitizing liquid or cream (photosensitizer) is applied. Second, there is an incubation period. This period can be a few hours, ranging up to 18 hours. Finally, the target tissue is then exposed to a specific wavelength of blue light that activates the photosensitizing medication that causes the treated skin cells to slough away.

Serious side effects of Levulan Kerastick are unusual but tingling, stinging, prickling, itching, swelling, or burning of the area treated are common during the light treatment. The side effects generally improve at the end of the light treatment. Following treatment, patients often experience temporary redness, swelling, and scaling of lesions and surrounding skin.

PDT is often used following other EMPD treatments such as surgery.

Treatments for extramammary Paget’s disease (EMPD) often differ but frequently include one or more of the following: Mohs surgery, wide local excision (WLE) surgery, topical creams, carbon dioxide (CO2) laser, photodynamic therapy (PDT), cavitational ultrasonic surgical aspiration (CUSA), radiation therapy, skin grafts, and chemotherapy.

The content on this website, including text and visual materials, is intended to raise awareness of extramammary Paget’s disease (EMPD) and help individuals understand its complexities. However, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor does it endorse any specific treatments, tests, physicians, procedures, or products. If you suspect symptoms of EMPD, we encourage you to consult a qualified healthcare provider for proper evaluation and guidance.