PDT Treatment
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment that uses a drug, called a photosensitizer or photosensitizing agent, and a particular type of light. When photosensitizers are exposed to a specific wavelength of light, they produce a form of oxygen that kills nearby cells.
Each photosensitizer is activated by light of a specific wavelength. This wavelength determines how far the light can travel into the body. Thus, doctors use specific photosensitizers and wavelengths of light to treat different areas of the body with PDT.
Now, what was it like as the patient? First, nurse cleansed the entire face & placed the photosensitizing agent on my face. I was sent to the waiting room for one hour. I had to sit away from light and florescent light. After an hour back to the room!
Next, eyes were covered with special goggles to cover the eyes. And the light turned on for exactly 4 minutes and 10 seconds! And the pain begins! It feels warm all over your face and something like little bees (or Yellow Jackets) stinging your face! That is 4 minutes and 10 seconds of bee stings! WOW! You have a little fan they give you and you hold it up close to your face - ON HIGH!
My strategy? Keep talking and asked the nurse when we reach 1/2 way. Then when are we at 1 minute, 30 seconds………….
Afterwards, cold compresses applied to face! Home wearing a hat to avoid sunlight! (FELT LIKE A VAMPIRE!) Home, was told to avoid sunlight for 48 hours!
I am now out 36 hours and my face looks & feels like a bad case on sun burn! The bad news, need a second treatment in January! And I know how it feels! Next, Basal Cell removal in December!
Found this photo, of an example of a patient - IT IS NOT ME!
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