How effective is photodynamic therapy for basal cell carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma is a skin cancer that can look like a pearly bump, a non-healing sore, or a scaly patch. Photodynamic therapy applies a light-sensitive preparation and activates it with light to damage targeted tumour cells. It is generally considered only after the clinician has assessed the tumour's subtype, depth, edges, and position.

A visible response does not prove that every cancer cell has gone. Deeper, recurrent, infiltrative, or high-risk lesions may be better managed with surgery or another treatment. The page on [Basal Cell Carcinoma](/conditions/basal-cell-carcinoma/) explains the condition, while [Photodynamic Therapy](/treatments/laser-and-energy/photodynamic-therapy/) describes the procedure.

Ask whether the diagnosis has been confirmed and whether a biopsy is needed before choosing light-based treatment. Discuss how the area will be protected after treatment, what wound changes are expected, and whether more than one treatment visit or a different option may be appropriate.

Attend all planned checks. Tell the clinician about a sore, crust, bump, or scar-like change that persists or returns in the treated area. Protect exposed skin from sunlight, but do not use sun protection as a substitute for review of a suspicious lesion.

Seek prompt clinical assessment if the treated site bleeds repeatedly, enlarges, becomes increasingly painful, develops persistent discharge, or fails to heal. Urgent advice is also sensible for rapidly spreading redness, marked swelling, fever, or severe pain after treatment.

Is my basal cell carcinoma superficial and suitable for photodynamic therapy? How will you assess the tumour before and after treatment? What findings would make surgery preferable, and how long should I expect the treated area to remain inflamed or crusted?