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.