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.
MEDICAL SERVICES
BEFORE & AFTER
GALLERY
Checkout our before and after gallery where we feature a few our recent patients.
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.
Rachel Almada LE,CAE
Rachael graduated from the Aesthetics Institute in 2020 and recently acquired a Bachelor of Arts from Portland State University. Coming from a dermatology background, Rachael has a passion for skin health and sun protection. Her favorite part about being an Advanced Aesthetician is helping patients reach their skin goals and watching their confidence build because of it. She understands that everyone’s skin requires its own unique approach whether it’s a treatment plan or a skincare regimen.
When she is out of the office, Rachael enjoys traveling, trying new food, making art, and doing pretty much anything outdoors – especially if it includes her Doberman-mix pup, Rubio!
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If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to schedule an appointment please let us know.
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