Photodynamic Therapy for Cancer in Santa Monica/Los Angeles, CA

Dec 22, 2025
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) For Cancer
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a treatment that uses light-based technology to target cancer cells. PDT is non-invasive and an effective alternative treatment option for cancer that aims to reduce impact on healthy tissue.

Photodynamic Therapy for Cancer in Santa Monica & Los Angeles, CA

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is an advanced, targeted treatment option that may help certain patients with cancer while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. At Best Naturopathic Medicine, we are proud to offer Photodynamic Therapy in Santa Monica, serving patients throughout Los Angeles and the surrounding areas.

Our clinic provides personalized, evidence-based care for patients seeking minimally invasive cancer treatment options.


What Is Photodynamic Therapy?

Photodynamic Therapy is a medical treatment that combines:

  • A photosensitizing medication

  • Light at a specific wavelength

  • Oxygen within the body’s cells

Once administered, the medication is absorbed more readily by certain cancer or precancerous cells. When the treatment area is exposed to a controlled light source, the medication is activated, producing a reaction that damages targeted cells while helping preserve healthy tissue.


How Photodynamic Therapy Is Used in Cancer Treatment

Photodynamic Therapy may be recommended for certain cancers when the affected area can be reached with light-based treatment. PDT is commonly used in specific clinical situations and is not appropriate for all cancer types.

Photodynamic Therapy may be considered for:

  • Certain skin cancers

  • Precancerous lesions

  • Some esophageal cancers

  • Select lung, head, and neck cancers

  • Many other cancer types

Our Santa Monica medical team carefully evaluates each patient to determine whether PDT is an appropriate option based on cancer type, location, and overall health.


Benefits of Photodynamic Therapy for Cancer Patients

For eligible patients in the Los Angeles area, Photodynamic Therapy may offer:

  • Targeted cancer treatment

  • Minimally invasive care

  • Reduced impact on healthy tissue

  • Shorter recovery time

  • Often performed as an outpatient procedure

  • The ability to repeat treatment if necessary

Because PDT is localized, it may be used alone for early-stage disease or alongside other cancer treatments.


What to Expect During Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic Therapy typically involves:

  1. Administration of a photosensitizing agent

  2. A waiting period for the medication to concentrate in targeted cells

  3. Activation using a specialized light source

After treatment, patients may experience temporary sensitivity to light and are advised to avoid direct sunlight for a short period.


Is Photodynamic Therapy Right for You?

Photodynamic Therapy is not a replacement for all cancer treatments, such as surgery or radiation. A comprehensive evaluation is required to determine whether PDT fits into your individualized treatment plan.

At Best Naturopathic Medicine in Santa Monica, CA, our physicians focus on patient-centered, evidence-based care for individuals throughout Los Angeles County.


Photodynamic Therapy in Santa Monica — Schedule a Consultation

If you are searching for Photodynamic Therapy in Santa Monica or Los Angeles, our clinic is here to help. Contact Best Naturopathic Medicine to schedule a consultation and learn whether PDT may be an appropriate option for your care.

We welcome patients from Santa Monica, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, West LA, Brentwood, Venice, and surrounding communities.