Mesothelioma

Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic therapy is a new type of cancer treatment in which the patient receives a photosensitizing agent. The photosensitizer collects in the cancerous cells and makes them vulnerable to a light of specific wavelengths. The treated cancer cells are then exposed to a laser light chosen for its ability to activate the photosensitizing agent. This laser light is delivered to the cancer site through a fiber optic device.

The laser light interacts with the photosensitizing drug, creating a special kind of oxygen that eats away at the cancerous cells. The laser light is not very strong, so this type of treatment is best used against tumors that are close to the skin or on the surface of the internal organs. In addition, the light exposure must be carefully timed so that it occurs when the photosensitizing agent has left the healthy cells, but is still present in cancerous ones.

The major side effect of photodynamic therapy is skin sensitivity. The photosensitizing drugs a patient is given increase the entire body's sensitivity to sunlight, so the patient must avoid the sun for up to six weeks to prevent sun damage. Other reported side effects include nausea, vomiting, a metallic taste in the mouth, and eye sensitivity to light.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of photodynamic therapy for non-small cell lung cancer and cancer of the esophagus. However, photodynamic therapy is still in the experimental stages as a possible mesothelioma treatment. It has been used on an experimental basis during surgery to help prevent the recurrence of mesothelioma cancer in the lining of the lungs or pleura.

If you or a loved one is suffering from mesothelioma, making decisions regarding treatment can be difficult. However, it is important to be aware that those suffering from mesothelioma have legal options as well. To learn your rights as mesothelioma patient or a concerned loved one, fill out our free, no obligation case evaluation form today.