Benzoporphyrin derivative: a potent photosensitizer for photodynamic destruction of rabbit endometrium.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the optimal pharmacokinetic characteristics for photodynamic endometrial destruction using topically applied benzoporphyrin derivative and to evaluate long-term morphologic effects in a rabbit model.


METHODS
Benzoporphyrin derivative pharmacokinetics were measured by analyzing frozen tissue sections 1.5-12 hours following topical administration. Photodynamic therapy was induced intraluminally 1.5 hours after drug application, and tissue morphology was evaluated by light and scanning electron microscopy 1 and 4 weeks after treatment.


RESULTS
The highest glandular and stromal fluorescence was observed 1.5 hours after topical administration. Relative fluorescence of the endometrial glands significantly exceeded that of stroma and myometrium mainly at 1.5 and 3 hours (P < .0001). Histology revealed persistent epithelial destruction with minimal regeneration. Stroma resembled scar tissue in the majority of sections. The bordering myometrium was loosened and invaded by connective tissue.


CONCLUSIONS
Topically applied benzoporphyrin derivative can be used for highly effective, long-lasting photodynamic destruction of rabbit endometrium. However, optical dosimetry can vary, particularly in the rabbit model, and this appears to affect long-term reepithelialization.
Wyss
P
P
Beckman Laser Institute and Medical Clinic, University of California, Irvine.
Tadir
Y
Y
Tromberg
B J
BJ
Liaw
L
L
Krasieva
T
T
Berns
M W
MW
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000818:Animals; D003911:Dextrans; D004717:Endometrium / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D005260:Female; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D010778:Photochemotherapy; D011166:Porphyrins / Q000493:pharmacokinetics* / Q000494:pharmacology; D011817:Rabbits; D011838:Radiation-Sensitizing Agents / Q000493:pharmacokinetics* / Q000494:pharmacology
D003911:Dextrans; D011166:Porphyrins; D011838:Radiation-Sensitizing Agents; C504224:benzoporphyrin D