Had photodynamic therapy 7 days ago. My vision seems to be blurring. Is this also an affect?

Question

for precancerous face cells. extreme pain and discomfort for 5 days. swelling hot, sensitive skin, stayed inside fro 5 days because of pain. now

Alim R. Devani, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Photodynamic therapy, or PDT, is a procedure in which
levulan or metvix, a photosensitizer, is applied to the skin and incubates for
a period of time (usually 1 to 3 hours).  The photosensitizer is then
activated by a light source, such as blue light, red light or intense pulsed
light.  Actinic keratoses (precursors to squamous cell carcinoma) and acne
both respond well to the treatment.  While initial studies for the
treatment were done with longer incubation times, many studies have shown that
shorter times are just as effective. It is very important to protect skin
from the sun for at least 48 hours post treatment. Off label uses include the
treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers and photoaging. Side effects can include
phototoxic reactions including pain, burning, pruritis, erythema, edema, local
skin photosensitivity [short period of time], potential eye phototoxicity
[unlikely with topical PDT but it can occur], crusting, vesicobullous reaction, and erosions for
7-10 days and then peeling (normal response). These effects can be mild or
severe depending on other factors (sun/artifical light exposure).

Deborah vanVliet, MD · Answer

PDT is a very safe and effective procedure for the treatment of photo-damage of the skin.  It is very unlikely that this treatment would cause blurring of your eyes due to any eye injury per se.  That being said eye injury could potentially occur if your eye was exposed to either the levulinic acid or to the laser energy - again I think these complications are rare.  The eyelid skin can swell extensively with PDT and this can give you a sense of temporary blurriness.   I would recommend that you follow up with your physician in a timely fashion so that they can assess your eyes for you.

Had photodynamic therapy 7 days ago. My vision seems to be blurring. Is this also an affect?

Answers (2)

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