Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Photodynamic Therapy is an approved promising cancer treatment where a FDA approved photosensitizing agent, called porfimer sodium, or Photofrin, is injected into a patient and absorbed by cells all over the patient’s body.  After a couple of days, the agent remains in cancer cells but not in normal cells.  The tumor is then exposed to a laser light that produces an active form of oxygen that destroys cancer cells.

The technique is based on the discovery that certain light-sensitive chemical compounds called photosensitizers are preferentially taken up by cancer cells in the body capable of destroying unwanted (abnormal) tissue with little or no damage to surrounding healthy cells.

Research has also found that PDT is known to shrink or destroy tumors by damaging blood vessels in the tumor, preventing the cancer from receiving the necessary nutrients needed to survive.  Studies also suggest that PDT may activate the immune system thereby destroying the cancer cells.

Clinical trials are underway to evaluate the use of PDT for cancers of the brain, skin, prostate, cervix and peritoneal cavity.  Researchers are currently investigating ways to improve PDT equipment and the delivery of the activating light.

Indications

• Cancer  - specifically localized cancer located within 1 cm of the skin surface including lymph nodes and breast cancer
• Cancers where surgery is not advisable due to tumor proximity to vital organs, or where preserving essential function and delicate underlying structures is too critical, such as the head and neck.

Questions?
If you have any questions about Photodynamic Therapy or would like more information on our programs or services, you can contact IMI at 403.233.0917 or by email at info@i-medi.org