Abstract
With current treatment methods the prognosis for patients with aggressive brain tumors is dismal. Treatment failure is usually due to local recurrence of tumor. Intra-operative photodynamic detection (PDD) of tumor tissue and post-surgical photodynamic therapy (PDT) of the resection cavity may be of benefit. The utility of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) has been recognized in many different treatment fields over the past decade. Following administration of exogenous ALA, the endogenous photosensitizer, protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), accumulates in tumor tissue. A photodynamic effect occurs upon light activation of the target tissue. This article reviews the current preclinical and clinical studies and potential future applications of ALA and its ester-induced PpIX as a photosensitizing agent in the detection and treatment of brain tumors.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.