In healthcare, light can be used for therapy and treatment of a number of medical conditions. In particular, laser light has a diverse number of medical applications such as contouring, restructuring, welding and regeneration of tissue.
One example of light-activated therapy for the treatment of skin conditions such as certain types of cancer is called photodynamic therapy (PDT).
Photodynamic therapy
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a two-step process. Firstly, a photosensitive drug is applied to the area where treatment is required. The drug is metabolised by healthy cells and retained by cancerous cells.
The application of the photosensitive drug is followed by controlled exposure to a selective light source which activates the drug and selectively destroys the diseased cells.
Advantages of PDT
* The treatment technique is non-invasive and selective
* PDT avoids the scarring associated with surgical removal of the tumour offering excellent cosmetic results.
* Repeated therapy is possible
* The need for an in-patient hospital stay is removed
PDT has proved to be extremely effective. It is now the preferred treatment for several forms of skin cancer including; Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), Actinic (solar) keratosis (AK) and Bowens disease (squamous carcinoma in situ).
Disadvantages/concerns
* Currently, administration of PDT involves large, cumbersome and intense light sources
* A hospital visit is still required
* The patient must sit or lie still under the light sources for several hours during treatment in a hospital cubicle
* A high level of supervision is required during light illumination
* The PDT process can be extremely painful for some patients
The 'light-bandage'
Scientists from University of St Andrews and Ninewells hospital, Dundee have developed a novel light-emitting device for the administration of PDT.
Read more to find out why it is being described as the 'sticking plaster' cure for cancer!