Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Photodynamic Therapy is a clinical procedure that requires the administration of a light-activated drug (a photosensitizer) followed by irradiation with light of an appropriate wavelength. In the presence of oxygen, the light-activated drug produces reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to selective destruction of the target tissue. In case of cancer, in addition to the direct effect on target cells, PDT shuts down the blood vessels of the tumour thus preventing it from receiving nutrients, and may trigger patient’s immune response against cancer cells.

PDT POTENTIAL ADVANTAGES OVER EXISTING CANCER TREATMENTS

• Can be very precisely targeted;
• Less invasive than some standard treatments, such as surgery;
• Can be combined with other treatment modalities;
• Absence of cancer drug resistance mechanisms;
• Can be repeated several times;
• Good cosmetic outcome.