Review of photodynamic therapy

Introduction: Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is an emerging treatment for a variety of conditions including ocular and extra ocular diseases. The porphyrins have been used extensively, as dyes, which are laser-activated to achieve desired clinical effects. Commonly used agents are verteporfin and porfimer sodium. Methods: We performed a literature search of the PubMed database using the medical search headings: photodynamic therapy, photosensitizer verteporfin, visudyne, porfimer sodium and photofrin. We also performed a manual search using references from these articles, review articles and manufacturers' product monographs. Results: Verteporfin and porfimer sodium are commonly used photosensitizing agents with their wide applications in different fields of medicine. Both have well established safety profiles. They are most commonly used in wet age-related macular degeneration, gastrointestinal diseases and bronchial cancers. Conclusion: PDT is a well established treatment entity in ophthalmology and other medical fields. In ophthalmology, it has rekindled interest and hopes in the common yet sight-threatening problem of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This problem is still considered to be a serious issue as far as management is concerned. However in selective cases of AMD, it has shown success in restoring sight, especially in the 'classic' form of the disease. PDT is also being used to treat a range of solid cancers and non malignant conditions.