Actinic Keratoses and Blu-U Light Therapy
Actinic keratosis are pre-cancerous skin lesions resulting from excessive sun exposure. DUSA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. are the makers of Levulan Kerastick (aminolevulinic acid), an FDA approved treatment for minimally to moderate thick actinic keratosis of the face or scalp using the Blu-U Light photodynamic therapy illuminator. A picture of this device is on the right. In FDA trials, this device is the only one that has approval for activation of the Levulan Kerastick. Once activated by the Blu-U light, the Levulan actively destroys sun damaged pre-cancerous cells. Most notably, the patient receives a warning that such activation will lead to significant unsightly inflammation for a period of time.
Blu-U Light Therapy and Acne?
The FDA approves the Blu-U Light Photodynamic (with or without Levulan Kerastick) Therapy Illuminator to treat moderate inflammatory acne vulgaris. In addition, for many patients that do not wish to take long-term antibiotics, this is a very good option. Patients with moderate acne have had great success in our office with this modality.
Blu-U and Levulanic Acid is also a treatment modality for sebaceous hyperplasia of the face and scalp regions.
If the doctor uses Levulanic Acid, it is very important to avoid sun exposure for 48-72 hours due to the photosensitizing effect of this drug.
Will insurance cover these treatments?
It is a medically approved treatment, but please confirm with your insurance company.
In conclusion, follow-up with Dr. Atkins to monitor your acne improvement is important, as well.
