Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)


Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is an emerging method capable of treating a variety of cancers. 

• PDT uses the combination of a photosensitizing agent (PS), light and oxygen to destroy the cancer without the significant side effects         that occur with other treatment modalities.

• It can be used to treat recurrent cancer and be used in combination with other therapies.

• The compounds (photosensitizers) used in PDT also fluoresce. Therefore, these same agents can also be used for detection by         fluorescence imaging. This enables fluorescence image-guided surgery and therapy.



 

Cancer Treatment Today and the Advantages of PDT 

  • Major problem of cancer recurrence: inefficient treatment .

  • With Chemotherapy, toxicity is the main issue and benefits are limited.

  • Emerging Onco-Immunology Therapy: limited, unpredictable, and expensive

  • Surgery can result in loss of function, is expensive, and is sometimes incomplete.

  • PDT treatment can be used before or after surgery and/or chemotherapy.