Related Experiment Video For blue LED
Updated: Sep 2, 2026

An In Vitro Approach to Photodynamic Therapy
Published on: August 17, 2018
Autofluorescence Imaging and Methylene Blue-Mediated Photodynamic Therapy for Early Detection and Management of
Juliana Cristina Oliverio de Araújo1,2, Og Fray Junior2, Hermano Camelo Paiva3
1Professional Master Radiation Technology in Health Sciences, Nuclear and Energy Research Institute (IPEN-CNEN), São Paulo, Brazil.
Objectives:
Optical autofluorescence imaging is a noninvasive adjunct for detecting potentially malignant oral disorders, such as actinic cheilitis (AC). This study evaluated its use for early detection and for monitoring tissue response following methylene blue-mediated photodynamic therapy (MB-PDT).
Methods:
Lip autofluorescence was assessed using a handheld device (405 ± 20 nm). Areas with altered fluorescence underwent biopsy for confirmation. Patients with AC received five MB-PDT sessions (660 nm, 100 mW, 120 s/point) after topical 1% MB. Grayscale intensity was quantified before treatment and at 30 days.
Results:
Of 25 screened individuals, 19 had confirmed AC, and 17 completed follow-up. Lesions showed higher fluorescence intensity than healthy tissue. After MB-PDT, mean intensity and variability significantly decreased, indicating tissue response. Smokers showed a smaller reduction.
Conclusion:
Autofluorescence imaging enables early detection and noninvasive monitoring of AC. Combined with MB-PDT, it represents a practical strategy for managing high-risk patients and supporting early intervention.

