Topical photodynamic therapy: an introduction for nurses

Non-melanoma skin cancers are the most common cancers in the UK. Although an estimated 50000 cases were registered in 1999 across England and Wales, there is likely to be significant under-reporting of cases. However, the cancer registries do not include pre-cancerous lesions of the skin and therefore the number treated will greatly outnumber the cancers (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, 2006). Topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one of several effective treatments for pre-malignant and malignant non-pigmented skin cancers. The treatment is non-invasive and can be administered by nurses in a clinical setting. PDT is a two-step process involving the application of a light-activated substance followed by exposure to light to activate this substance. The treatment results in the elimination of tumour cells while leaving the healthy skin unharmed. This article provides an introduction to PDT for nurses who may in the future be involved in setting up a PDT service within their practice area.