Photodynamic therapy for esophageal dysplasia
involves the use of a laser light and photosensitive chemicals to reduce or
eliminate early-stage esophageal cancer or abnormal cells lining the esophagus.
The procedure is achieved by injecting the patient with a photoreactive
chemical that accumulates in abnormal cells. Two to three days later, the area
is treated with a laser placed next to the tumor, causing the cells with the
chemical to die. This is an experimental non-surgical procedure.
Also
Known As:
- Esophageal
cancer treatment
- PDT for
Barrett’s esophagus
- Porfimer
sodium photodynamic therapy for esophageal dysplasia
Conditions
Treated with Photodynamic Therapy for Esophageal Dysplasia:
Photodynamic therapy for esophageal dysplasia may be
performed in cases of esophageal cancer or Barrett’s esophagus.
There are no comparable non-surgical alternatives to
photodynamic therapy for esophageal dysplasia. Surgical alternatives to the
procedure include endoscopic mucosal resection, esophageal resection and
radiofrequency ablation.
Potential
Complications from Photodynamic Therapy for Esophageal Dysplasia:
Possible risks following photodynamic therapy for
esophageal dysplasia include bleeding, infection, burns, scarring, swelling,
coughing, chest pain and difficulty swallowing. It is also possible for the esophagus
to be perforated and to experience esophageal stricture or narrowing. Some
patients experience severe light sensitivity for six to eight weeks.
Prognosis
after Photodynamic Therapy for Esophageal Dysplasia:
The prognosis for a positive end result following
photodynamic therapy for esophageal dysplasia is very good. However, the long
term effects are not well known.
Recovery
from Photodynamic Therapy for Esophageal Dysplasia:
Total recovery from photodynamic therapy for
esophageal dysplasia takes three weeks.
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