What is Photodynamic Therapy and How Much Does it Cost?

Photodynamic Therapy: Benefits, Risk factors and Associated Costs in India

India’s healthcare advancement is set out towards a significant transformation. With the focus shifting to faster, safer and non-invasive treatments for major health concerns such as cancer, photodynamic treatment stands out. A study reported with 90% of people with cancer responding to the therapy, it provides a promising outlook on the future of cancer treatment.

How Does Photodynamic Therapy Work?

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) uses photosensitising agents and light to destroy abnormal or cancerous cells. These agents are light-sensitive and activate when doctors administer 600-800nm light frequency to the targeted area.

The therapy works in 3 steps. They are:

• Drug Administration: Your doctor will either inject the photosensitising drug or apply it as a cream. Depending on the type of medicine, absorption time varies. Your skin may absorb some drugs within 1-3 hours, or it may take 2-3 days for complete absorption.
• Light Activation: The drugs stay in the abnormal cells for a longer period. After absorption, your doctor will expose the targeted area to LED or laser light. In case the abnormal cells are not on the surface, doctors will use a thin tube to expose them to light.
• Destruction of Abnormal Cells: When your doctor shines light onto the affected area, the photosensitising drugs start to react with the oxygen in the abnormal cells. A chemical reaction starts, destroying targeted abnormal cells with minimal impact on surrounding healthy tissue, depending on drug selectivity and light exposure

Usually, this procedure takes 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, depending on the size of the targeted area, the time may be longer. 

What is the Cost of Photodynamic Therapy in India? 

Photodynamic therapy costs in India can vary depending on various factors. One of the major factors influencing the price is its intended use. Doctors may use PDT for dermatological, ocular or cancer treatment. Moreover, the severity of the condition also affects its price.

In general, the average price for PDT treatment is approximately Rs. 40,000. However, for an accurate cost breakdown per session, check with your respective clinic.

Which Conditions Does Photodynamic Therapy Treat?

PDT can treat various cancerous and precancerous diseases. It may also be used for reducing cosmetic concerns such as severe acne and photoaging. Here is a list of diseases that PDT treats:

• Lung cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Barrett’s oesophagus
• Head and neck cancer
• Skin cancer
• Bowen disease
• Bile duct cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Actinic keratosis

What are the Benefits of Photodynamic Therapy?

PDT has several benefits, some of which are outlined below:

• PDT is non-invasive and less risky than surgery.
• You can repeat the therapy multiple times in the same area without damage, unlike radiation therapy.
• It takes less time compared to surgery, which can last up to 1 day.

What are the Potential Side Effects of Photodynamic Therapy?

Although PDT promises a bright future, the therapy can cause several side effects. These may include swollen skin or blisters near the affected area. These side effects, if not addressed properly, may last for up to 3 months. You can prevent this by doing the following:

• Try to avoid direct sunlight for at least 1 month after treatment.
• Avoid going out between 10 AM and 4 PM.
• Cover your whole skin and wear sunglasses whenever you have to step outside.

As research on PDT advances, experts believe the therapy will be adopted in primary cancer and precancer care. However, the widespread availability of this therapy is set to increase shortly.