Management of Photosensitivity

Before Treatment

Photodynamic therapy with PHOTOFRIN is a treatment for certain types of cancer. It uses a combination of a photoactive drug ( a drug that is activated by light) and light from a non-thermal laser.

After administration of PHOTOFRIN your skin and eyes will be very sensitive to direct sunlight and bright lights.

Before You Leave Home:

Be sure that windows in your home have curtains or shades to block out direct sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight from skylights.

Bring Or Wear To The Hospital:

Dark Sunglasses
Gloves
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Long-sleeved Shirt and Slacks

After Treatment

Common Side Effects:

Local swelling and inflammation in and around the treated area may cause physical discomfort in that area.

Your skin and eyes will be very sensitive to bright light for about 30 days after the injection:

Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or bright lights (such as reading or examination lights). You can watch TV or go to the movies.
Stay away from undraped windows or skylights. Normal indoor light is OK.
Avoid "helmet" type hair dryers (like those found in beauty salons). Hand-held hair dryers on low settings are a safer option.

Other Possible Side Effects:

If your esophagus is being treated: fever, nausea, and/or vomiting, constipation, pain in the chest or abdomen, shortness of breath.
If your lung is being treated: fever, constipation, pain in the chest, shortness of breath, bronchitis, vomiting up small amounts of blood.
Talk with your doctor about what to expect.

Managing Exposure To Direct Sunlight:

FOR 30 DAYS

If possible, wait until sundown to do outside chores (such as shopping).

If you do go outside during daylight hours, wear

Long-sleeved shirt, slacks
Preferably tight-knit, light colored fabrics
Gloves
Socks, shoes
Wide-brimmed hat
Dark Sunglasses

ON DAY 31

Test for photosensitivity by putting your hand in a paper bag with a 2 inch hole in it and expose it to direct sunlight for 10 minutes.
If a reaction occurs (swelling, redness, or blistering) withing 24 hours, continue to take precautions for another 2 weeks before retesting.
If no reaction occurs within 24 hours, you may gradually increase your exposure to sunlight. Continue to watch for skin reactions.
Call your doctor if your skin becomes red or blistered at any point following treatment.

Email KC Zahner, Administrative Director, for comments about this website.

NOTICE: This email is not for medically related issues. Comments or concerns regarding patient-related care should be directed to the Thoracic Surgery Clinic at 617-732-6824.

Division of Thoracic Surgery
Brigham and Women's Hospital
75 Francis Street
Boston, MA 02115