Lung Cancer Treatment: Photodynamic Therapy
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Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) offers photodynamic therapy (PDT), a promising treatment option. Photodynamic therapy is presently being used for early stage lung cancer, where it can help open up a blocked airway. This therapy can help in treatment of a very early stage lung cancer or a previously treated lung cancer.
Photodynamic therapy is a two-step procedure that is done on an outpatient basis. It involves injecting photoporphyrin, a light-activated chemical substance, into the bloodstream. Tumor cells absorb the photoporphyrin, priming the site for treatment. After 24 to 48 hours, a laser light is directed through a bronchoscope. This activates the photoporphyrin, which works to destroy the exposed tumor cells.
Photodynamic therapy benefits include:
- It is performed on an outpatient basis
- It is relatively pain free
- It requires minimal sedation
- It has minimal side effects
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