title: Photodynamic therapy.
abstract: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an experimental cancer treatment modality that selectively destroys cancer cells by an interaction between absorbed light and a retained photosensitizing agent. This review discusses the basic components of photodynamic activity and examines the clinical applications of photodynamic therapy in cancer treatment. Treatment of superficial and early-stage malignancies is encouraging. Technologic advancement and further elucidation of the fundamental basis of photodynamic action should permit treatment of more advanced malignancies.
mesh_terms: D005453:Fluorescence; D017324:Hematoporphyrin Derivative; D006415:Hematoporphyrins / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology; D010778:Photochemotherapy / Q000639:trends; D011786:Quality Control
chemical_list: D006415:Hematoporphyrins; D017324:Hematoporphyrin Derivative