Best Doctor List Near You for Photodynamic Therapy in Brookline

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment that uses a combination of a photosensitizing agent, light, and oxygen to kill cancerous and abnormal cells. The therapy involves administering a drug that becomes activated when exposed to a specific wavelength of light. The photosensitizer, once absorbed by the target cells, is activated by light exposure, producing a form of oxygen that destroys the cells. PDT is commonly used to treat certain types of cancers, such as skin, esophageal, and lung cancers, as well as precancerous conditions like actinic keratosis. The cause of its effectiveness lies in the selective uptake of the photosensitizer by abnormal cells, which makes the therapy relatively targeted, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. However, complications can arise, including skin sensitivity to light, which may last for several weeks after treatment, and localized swelling, pain, or inflammation in the treated area. Additionally, PDT can cause damage to nearby healthy tissues if not properly controlled and may lead to scarring or changes in skin pigmentation. In some cases, incomplete treatment can occur if all targeted cells are not adequately exposed to light, potentially necessitating additional treatments. Despite these risks, PDT is considered a relatively safe and effective option for treating certain cancers and conditions with a focused, minimally invasive approach.