[Improved argon laser photodynamic therapy for superficial bladder tumor--experimental research and clinical...

The killing effects of 514.5 nm argon laser and 630 nm dye laser radiation on the murine SP2/0 myeloma cells cultured in thin layer containing HPD were measured by clonogenic assay. It was found that the former was 3.34 fold higher than the latter. Improved argon laser photodynamic therapy was used in the treatment of 104 superficial bladder tumors in 40 patients. Firstly, high output (6-7 W/cm2) argon laser contact and interstitial radiation were used to eradicate visible tumors, and then cylindrical optic fiber was used to deliver argon laser (2.1-3.47 W/cm2) for whole bladder mucosal scattered irradiation to destroy small multi-focal tumors and reduce recurrence. In this series, the follow-up was 7-34 months. All patients achieved complete response and only 7 (17.5%) recurred.