Photodynamic therapy, or PDT - one of the most modern and malotravmiruyuschih therapeutic methods to combat tumors.
The procedure is performed in two stages: first, the patient is given special anticancer drugs (Photosensitizing agent) in an inactive state, and then irradiated with light of a certain wave length. As a result, the photosensitizing agent is in the body, is activated and proceeds to the production of active oxygen forms that damage / kill cancer cells.
Important:photosensitizers and penetrate into the tumor and healthy cells, but in the first delayed much longer than in the second.
Once introduced photosensitizer for 24-72 hours in the cells of cancer drug is accumulated in an amount sufficient for therapeutic effect. At this time in healthy tissues, on the other hand, the drug content is reduced to a minimum. Immediately after the laser is irradiated tumor area (most common) or other special light source.
To bring to the irradiated zone of the right light, use different types of lasers. Thus for the treatment of esophageal and lung cancer using endoscopes with fixed lasers on them.
Important! The mechanism of action of PDT makes this therapy particularly effective in the treatment of superficial tumors. But in some (specific doctor) cases using this method treat oncology esophagus, small cell lung cancer, and skin cancer.
Today PDT is used only for those patients whose malignant tumor ceased to respond to standard therapeutic methods. The method is also used in palliative purposes (to facilitate the patient's condition). Furthermore, PDT is often used in the treatment of so-called "pre-cancerous" states - e.g., in Barrett's esophagus (close to oncological change esophageal mucosa).
PDT light wave penetrates tissue to a depth of no more than a centimeter. This is definitely a local method, so it is not used for the treatment of metastases. The only exception is the above-mentioned palliative care.
It should be borne in mind: photosensitizers have the same negative effect on the healthy tissue, so during the necessary precautions procedures:
- it is not in the sun;
- wear protective clothing;
- wear sunglasses (in some cases).
Photodynamic therapy as an anti-tumor therapy is carried out, including in conjunction with other methods of oncological treatment. For example, surgery, radiation or chemotherapy.
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