What is photodynamic therapy?
Photodynamic therapy is a procedure that involves using a light-sensitive drug to destroy cells in the body. This procedure consists of two parts. First, the doctor gives the patient an injection. Two or three days after the patient is given an injection, the doctor will apply the laser light to the areas of target.
Why is photodynamic therapy used?
Photodynamic therapy is mainly used on cancer patients. The laser light destroys the cancerous cells and helps the immune system fight the cancer. There has also been evidence to suggest that photodynamic therapy can treat other conditions such as age-related macular degeneration.
What are some of the benefits of photodynamic therapy?
There are several benefits that can be reaped from photodynamic therapy. Unlike conventional medical treatments, photodynamic therapy does not have any known long-term side effects. It is also more cost-effective than other medical treatments. Photodynamic therapy is also minimally-invasive and can be performed as an outpatient procedure. Additionally, patients recover more quickly from this procedure than surgery and other types of treatments.
What are some of the drawbacks of photodynamic therapy?
One of the limitations of photodynamic therapy is that the light can only reach areas that line the internal organs and directly underneath the skin. This means that this procedure may not be effective for patients whose cancer has been spread to other parts of the body. Additionally, some people may be allergic to the drug that is administered before this procedure.
Is photodynamic therapy right for me?
Only a physician can determine whether photodynamic therapy is right for a particular patient. However, the pros of this procedure will usually outweigh the cons for patients who are in the early stages of their cancer.
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