Photophysics of and instrumentation for porphyrin detection and activation

In conclusion, when considering the photophysics of porphyrin detection and activation, it must be remembered that both processes are photon absorption initiated. As such, the absorption spectrum of the porphyrin, the wavelength or spectrum of the activating light, the rate of its delivery, its mode of delivery and the optical characteristics of the tissue must all be considered. When considering instrumentation, the spectral output or spectral sensitivity of the instrumentation must be considered. It is hoped that this review will provide basic knowledge to the new and established investigators in this area and thereby help to accelerate the field.