Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a medical treatment for some types of cancer. Photodynamic therapy uses a combination of laser light of a specific wavelength, oxygen and a light-sensitive drug to destroy cancer cells.

The light-sensitive drug (the photosensitizing agent) is injected into the bloodstream and is taken up by the cells throughout the body. The drug gathers preferentially in cancer cells, but is not activated until exposed to laser light of the appropriate wavelength. When a laser is shone onto the cancer, the drug is triggered to interact with oxygen and form a transitory substance, known as singlet oxygen, which then destroys the cancer cells.

There is a delay between injection and activation of the drug using the laser light. The laser light used in Photodynamic therapy is focused through a fibre-optic, and is shone for only a few minutes. The doctor holds the fibre-optic very close to the cancer so that the correct amount of light is delivered. This means that Photodynamic therapy causes the minimum amount of damage to normal, healthy cells.

In early-stage disease, the aim of treatment with Photodynamic therapy may be to completely remove and cure the cancer. In advanced disease, however, the goal may be to shrink the cancer in order to alleviate symptoms. In this scenario, Photodynamic therapy cannot cure the cancer.

Even patients who have had surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy in the past can be Treated safely with Photodynamic therapy.

As with all treatments, patients may experience some side effects following treatment with Photodynamic therapy. Following administration of the photosensitising agent, patients become highly sensitive to light. Precautions must be taken to avoid exposure of skin and eyes to direct sunlight or bright indoor lighting for a specified period following injection. Appropriate clothing and eyewear must be worn to prevent photosensitivity reactions. Other temporary side effects following Photodynamic therapy may include pain, which can be controlled with painkillers, swelling, difficulty swallowing and bleeding.

New, normal cells replace those cells killed by Photodynamic therapy allowing rapid healing to occur post-treatment and avoiding the scarring disfigurement that may occur with other types of tissue removal.

For further in information please visit the FacingLife website at www.facinglife.info.

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