Q: I have something on my skin that I think could be skin cancer. What should I do?
A: You should go to your GP as a starting point. There are many things that can be mistaken for skin cancer. If your GP is concerned, they will refer you to a dermatologist for an expert opinion.
Q: I think I have a melanoma. Can PDT treat it?
A: No. PDT can’t help. You should seek medical advice immediately.
Q: What might PDT be a possible treatment for?
A: PDT is used now for the treatment of the most common Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC). Another word for it is a Rodent Ulcer. PDT also treats Bowen’s disease and Actinic Keratosis.
Q: My surgery team have never heard about PDT.
A: A lot of GPs are not aware of PDT so you may need to be persistent. Tell them about this website. There is a lot of pubished information from NICE and other organisations, including Cancer Research UK. For your benefit, you should make sure that your doctor discusses all the treatment options with you.
Q: I have had a consultation and been told I can’t have PDT. Why?
A: Depending on how large or deep the skin cancer could be, PDT may not suitable. It is important that you ask what all your options are. Remember, only a trained dermatologist who DOES PDT will be able to decide if PDT may be suitable.
Q: Where can I get PDT near me?
A: Please use the hospital locator on this website to find the nearest hospital which has PDT. You will still have to get a referral from your GP. It is not normally possible to contact the hospital directly. In the UK system everything starts with GP. However you can ask to be referred to a hospital that offers PDT.
Q: I know someone who has a different sort of cancer. Could PDT be able to help them?
A: On the right hand side of the main Home page is a list of the conditions where PDT is in trial or approved. Please click on them to get the information they need.
