PDT
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) in Portland, Oregon treats actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions), certain types of skin cancer, and acne.
PDT is a two-stage treatment combining light energy with a drug (photosensitizer) to destroy said cancerous and precancerous cells after light activation while leaving normal cells intact. The treatment consists of application of a sensitizing agent – either Levulan (aminolevulinic acid 20%) or Metvixia (methyl aminolevulinate 16.8%) – which is left on the skin and allowed to be absorbed by the abnormal tissue for approximately 1 to 2 hours, followed by exposure to intense light for 15 minutes.
The chemical photosensitizer is activated by specific wavelengths of light energy. When it is triggered, it becomes toxic to the targeted tissue, making them very sensitive to light, which destroys the malignant cells. So it is very precise and controlled, minimizing any effect on the surrounding tissues.
After a short healing period, new skin cells replace the abnormal cells. Studies show that this light-based therapy promotes the body’s immune response, helping it destroy cancerous and precancerous cells.
If you have any questions about skin cancer, diagnostic procedures or skin cancer treatments in Portland, please contact us to schedule a consultation. Knott Street Dermatology in Portland also meets the needs of patients from nearby Lake Oswego, West Linn, Beaverton and Clackamas.
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BEFORE & AFTER
GALLERY
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OUR
TEAM
Our team is made up of experienced professionals
excited to help and provide personalized care just for you.
Alicia McCarthy, ND
Dr. Alicia McCarthy earned her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology degree from California State University of Fullerton in 2008 and her Naturopathic Medical degree in 2017 from National University of Natural Medicine in Portland, OR. The twelve years Dr. McCarthy spent working in emergency medicine as an EMT set the foundation for the provider she is today. She now specializes in aesthetic medicine, dedicating her continuing education and practice to staying current on the latest techniques and products. Dr. McCarthy believes in aging gracefully. She takes the time to sit down with each patient and find out what this means for them.
Prior to joining Knott Street Dermatology, Dr. McCarthy had her own practice in Lake Oswego focused on aesthetic medicine, hormone balancing, thyroid conditions, and IV medicine.
Originally from Southern California, Dr. McCarthy has lived in Portland for the last eleven years. When she is not working Dr. McCarthy stays busy with her two young kids, husky pup, and husband. They enjoy spending time outside, camping, swimming, and playing at the park.
Olivia Gill LE,CAE
Olivia graduated from Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics in 2015 and has been working full time as a Certified Advanced Esthetician and Laser Safety Officer for the last 6 years. Olivia’s favorite part about her job is helping her patients feel more confident in their own skin. She takes pride in tailoring each skin care regimen and treatment plan to fit everyone’s lifestyle and budget. When she’s not pampering patients, she enjoys camping, traveling, and quality time spent with her family, husband, and Corgi puppy- Ginger!
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