Tumor cells later slough off, like a scab. Instead, the light causes the photosensitizing agent to produce a highly active form of oxygen which kills diseased cells. The treatment is not without side effects. Patients' skin and eyes are hypersensitive to sunlight for six weeks or more after treatment. Sunscreens are ineffective.
Photodynamic therapy continues to be studied in the treatment of esophageal cancer.
New studies are investigating the technique in treating lung, prostate, skin, and bladder cancers. All rights reserved.