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Photodynamic therapy for cancer: Principles
BC Wilson
The
principles of photodynamic therapy (PDT), using drugs
(photosensitizers) that are activated by light to become
cytotoxic, provide the basis for understanding the current
and potential future clinical applications in gastroenterology,
general oncology and other specialities. The properties
of photosensitizers are key to their biological efficacy,
while lasers and optical fibres allow convenient and
flexible light delivery for endoscopic use. PDT has
several distinct and unique advantages, both as a stand-alone
treatment and in combination with other established
modalities. The current limitations are also recognized,
as is the need for rigorous randomized trials of this
emerging technology. The fluorescence of many photosensitizers
may be useful, either for (endoscopic) diagnosis or
for PDT treatment guidance and monitoring.
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