LASER DOSIMETRY STUDIES IN THE PROSTATE

Objective: To review the currently available data of photodynamic ther apy (PDT) optical dosimetry for possible prostatic applications, Summa ry Background Data: PDT is a new cancer treatment modality often used as an alternative tumor treatment method. Recently, PDT has been sugge sted as an alternative therapy for prostatic carcinoma and BPH, Method s: PDT utilizes light and a preadministered photosensitizer drug to ac hieve localized tumor control, This article reviews currently availabl e data on optical dosimetry of PDT in both human and canine prostates. Results: At 630 nm, a common wavelength used for Photofrin PDT, resul ts indicate that light penetration is similar in cancerous and normal prostatic tissue. Because of limited light penetration, multiple fiber irradiation is necessary if eradicating the entire prostate gland is the ultimate goal. The available data also show that dynamic changes o ccur in light fluence rate distribution during PDT irradiation. Conclu sions: PDT can be used to destroy prostatic tissue, Real-time optical dosimetry is necessary if accurate lesion volume control is desired.