[Photodynamic therapy of bronchogenic cancer]

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) means the activation by light of an exogenous photosensitizer previously retained by tumors. This therapeutic method is under current investigation for lung cancer. A review of the literature presents the preliminary results bearing upon more than 200 epidermoid bronchus carcinomas. A complete response rate of 75% can be anticipated for early tumors. Several survivals beyond five years, due to PDT alone, have already been reported. Two phase III trials are opened, comparing PDT vs YAG laser for obstructing tumors and PDT+Radiotherapy vs Radiotherapy alone for non-operable small tumors. PDT should be developed in selected indications of lung cancer, because it is an original and interesting therapeutic solution.