Related Experiment Videos
Photodynamic therapy: the NCI experience and its nursing implications
1Radiation Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.
Oncology Nursing Forum
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) shows promising results for superficial tumors. This treatment, involving a photosensitizing drug, light, and oxygen, has minimal toxicity in early clinical trials.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Photomedicine
Background:
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an emerging treatment modality.
- PDT utilizes a photosensitizing drug, light, and oxygen to create cytotoxic effects.
- It has shown efficacy in superficial tumors of the bladder, pleura, head and neck, bronchus, chest wall, and peritoneal cavity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the results of experience with photodynamic therapy (PDT) at the National Cancer Institute (NCI).
- To discuss the nursing implications of PDT administration and patient care.
Main Methods:
- Review of laboratory and clinical data from phase I clinical trials.
- Focus on the three components of PDT: photosensitizing drug, light source, and oxygen.
- Observation of patient responses and toxicities.
Main Results:
- Encouraging results observed in laboratory and clinical settings.
- PDT demonstrated cytotoxic effects on superficial tumors.
- Phase I clinical trials at NCI yielded positive outcomes with minimal systemic toxicities.
Conclusions:
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising treatment for superficial tumors.
- Nursing interventions are crucial for patient teaching, monitoring, and follow-up care.
- Further investigation and application of PDT are warranted.