When our skin is exposed to the sun for a long time, you may have noticed that sometimes small, rough, scaly spots develop. Some people also call these 'sunburn spots'. In medical terms, these are called `(Actinic Keratosis)`. Today we are going to talk about a very special treatment for these and a medicine used for it. This is not like your usual cream that you can use at home, it is something much different.
What is Aminolevulinic Acid?
Simply put, this is a special solution. It is used in conjunction with light therapy. That is, first the doctor applies this solution to those rough spots on your skin. Then, the solution makes only the irregular cells in those spots very sensitive to light. Healthy skin is not affected much.
After a few hours, the doctor shines a special blue light on the treated area. This destroys the abnormal cells that have become sensitive to the light. This entire process is called Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) . It targets and destroys only the problematic cells without harming healthy skin.
Things to tell your doctor before treatment
Before starting this treatment, the doctor needs to have a clear picture of your health. Therefore, if you have any of the conditions below, be sure to mention it.
- If you have bleeding disorders.
- If you have a rare condition called porphyria.
- If your skin is very sensitive, or if you have other skin conditions.
- If you have allergies to `Aminolevulinic Acid` or related chemicals called `(porphyrins).`
- If you have any allergies to any other medicine, food, or preservatives.
- If you are pregnant, or trying to get pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother.
How does this treatment work?
This is a very systematic procedure, done in a hospital or clinic. There are two main steps to this.
1. First step: When you go to see the doctor, he will apply this `Aminolevulinic Acid` solution on the problem areas on your skin. This is done very carefully. Then he will let you go home.
2. Step 2: After 14 to 18 hours (the doctor will tell you exactly when this is), you will need to come back to the hospital. The doctor will then shine a special blue light on the treated area for a few minutes.
This treatment is usually completed in one session. However, sometimes, if necessary, this treatment may need to be repeated after 8 weeks.
The most important thing is, this is not a medicine you can take home and use. The entire process takes place under medical supervision.
What if I accidentally take too much medicine?
This is given in a hospital, so the chances of this happening are very low. However, if something like this happens, that is, if you suspect an overdose, immediately call the National Poisons Information Center at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What you need to be most careful about during treatment!
Your skin will be very sensitive to light during this treatment. Therefore, you should avoid exposing your skin to direct sunlight or bright indoor lights for 40 hours after applying the solution .
- If you absolutely have to go outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat , long-sleeved clothing, and cover your skin well.
- Using sunscreen does not protect against this particular photosensitive condition. This is something to keep in mind.
- Stay completely away from artificial light sources like sun lamps and tanning beds.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
There are other medications that can make your skin sensitive to light, such as Aminolevulinic Acid. If you use another medication while taking this treatment, your skin may become even more sensitive. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.
| Drug type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Some diuretics | Chlorothiazide, Hydrochlorothiazide |
| Some medications for diabetes | Glipizide, Glyburide |
| Some antibiotics | Fluoroquinolones, Tetracyclines, Sulfonamides |
| Medicines for some mental illnesses (Phenothiazines) | Chlorpromazine, Prochlorperazine |
| Other | Creams and tablets containing St. John's Wort, vitamin A, and vitamin E |
What are the possible side effects?
As with any treatment, there are potential side effects. Some are serious, while others are mild. It's important to know the difference between these.
| Classification of side effects | |
|---|---|
| Things to tell your doctor immediately | |
| |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
|
If you notice anything unusual that isn't on this list, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Aminolevulinic Acid is a solution used in a special treatment for sun-damaged skin spots (Actinic Keratosis).
- This treatment is performed in two steps, completely under medical supervision, in a hospital or clinic.
- It is essential to inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking and your medical conditions.
- It is very important to protect the skin from sunlight and excessive light for 40 hours after treatment. A regular sunscreen will not be sufficient for this.
- If you experience a severe allergic reaction or severe skin irritation, seek medical advice immediately.
- Follow the doctor's instructions and follow-up appointments.
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