Does photodynamic therapy treat basal cell carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma is a skin cancer that can appear as a shiny bump, persistent sore, scaly patch or spot that bleeds and returns. Photodynamic therapy uses a light-sensitive medicine and a specific light to damage targeted tumour cells near the skin surface. It is generally considered only after a clinician confirms the diagnosis and assesses the tumour’s subtype, depth, borders and site. A deeper, recurrent or higher-risk lesion may need a different treatment so that its full extent is addressed.

Discuss the pathology result and all available treatment choices with a dermatologist. Ask how the proposed treatment will check tumour clearance and what follow-up is needed. Protect the treated area from bright light as instructed while the skin recovers; redness, burning, swelling, crusting or tenderness can occur. Continue regular skin checks and sun protection, since a treated area and other parts of the skin may need monitoring.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for a sore that does not heal, repeated bleeding, a growing shiny bump or a changing scaly patch. After treatment, contact the clinic for worsening pain, spreading redness, discharge, fever or a lesion that remains active. Do not delay review while trying home remedies on a suspected skin cancer.

Ask whether the biopsy shows a superficial tumour, how its location affects treatment choice, how clearance will be confirmed, what recurrence signs to watch for, and when follow-up skin examinations are due.