Photodynamic Therapy for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Current Status, Challenges, and Prospects

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Photomedicine

Background:

• Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a prevalent and lethal head and neck cancer.
• Conventional treatments like surgery and radiotherapy cause significant functional and cosmetic damage, impacting patient quality of life.
• Photodynamic therapy (PDT) presents a promising, less invasive alternative for OSCC management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the principles, mechanisms, and current applications of PDT for OSCC.
• To discuss challenges and innovations in PDT for OSCC treatment.
• To explore the role of biomarkers in refining PDT patient selection and treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on PDT principles, mechanisms, and applications in OSCC.
• Analysis of current challenges, including light penetration and hypoxia.
• Examination of advancements in photosensitizer technology, nanotechnology, and precision therapy.

Main Results:

• PDT demonstrates selective phototoxicity and necrosis in target tissues with minimal invasion and low side effects.
• Innovations are enhancing photosensitizers and integrating nanotechnology for improved PDT efficacy.
• Biomarker exploration aims to personalize PDT regimens for better patient outcomes.

Conclusions:

• PDT is a secure and effective modality for managing OSCC, preserving oral function and aesthetics.
• Addressing challenges like light penetration and hypoxia is crucial for optimizing PDT.
• Continued research and validation are essential to refine PDT protocols and ensure long-term therapeutic success in OSCC.