Fotosensitöinti

Fotosensitöinti, also known as photosensitization or photodynamic therapy (PDT), is a medical treatment that uses a photosensitizing agent in conjunction with a specific wavelength of light to destroy abnormal cells. This process is employed in various medical applications, particularly in dermatology and oncology.

The photosensitizing agent is typically a drug that, when exposed to light of a particular wavelength, becomes activated and produces reactive oxygen species. These reactive oxygen species are highly toxic to cells, leading to their destruction. The light source is usually a laser or a specialized lamp that emits light at the specific wavelength required to activate the chosen photosensitizer.

In dermatology, fotosensitöinti is commonly used to treat actinic keratoses, a precancerous skin condition, as well as certain types of skin cancer like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It can also be used for acne treatment and to rejuvenate sun-damaged skin. The treatment involves applying the photosensitizing agent to the affected area and then exposing it to the light source for a defined period.

In oncology, fotosensitöinti is used as a minimally invasive treatment for various cancers, including esophageal, lung, and bladder cancers. It can be used to treat superficial tumors or to reduce tumor bulk. The photosensitizer is often administered intravenously, and the light is delivered via fiber optics inserted into the body. The selective destruction of abnormal cells with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue is a key advantage of this therapy.