Photodynamic therapy
Photodynamic therapy (pronunciation: fo-to-dy-na-mic ther-a-py) is a treatment that uses a drug, called a photosensitizer or photosensitizing agent, and a particular type of light to kill cancer cells. The drug only works after it has been activated or "turned on" by certain kinds of light.
Etymology
The term "Photodynamic therapy" is derived from the Greek words photo meaning light, dynamic meaning power, and therapy meaning treatment.
Procedure
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. The photosensitizer is either put into the bloodstream through a vein or put on the skin. Over a certain amount of time the drug is absorbed by the cancer cells. Then light is applied to the area to be treated. The light causes the drug to react with oxygen, which forms a chemical that kills the cells.
Applications
Photodynamic therapy is used to treat various types of cancer and can also be used in the treatment of acne, psoriasis and age-related macular degeneration.
Related Terms
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Photodynamic therapy
- Wikipedia's article - Photodynamic therapy
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