Tunable laser systems for photodynamic therapy

Abstract

Traditionally, dye lasers have been, and still are, the most common light source for Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). Until now, most PDT work has been performed at wavelengths of approximately 630 nm, where non-tunable lasers are available; however, recent findings indicate that drugs with good absorption characteristics at longer wavelengths would be preferrable. Continuous wave (CW) dye lasers which emit light continuously, as opposed to pulsed lasers which emit light in short bursts, cover the spectral range between 400 nm and one pm. The benefits of dye lasers which make them the principle laser source for PDT will be discussed, as well as some of the commercially available configurations. The conclusion will examine the need for a tunable laser in the future of PDT.Traditionally, dye lasers have been, and still are, the most common light source for Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). Until now, most PDT work has been performed at wavelengths of approximately 630 nm, where non-tunable lasers are available; however, recent findings indicate that drugs with good absorption characteristics at longer wavelengths would be preferrable. Continuous wave (CW) dye lasers which emit light continuously, as opposed to pulsed lasers which emit light in short bursts, cover the spectral range between 400 nm and one pm. The benefits of dye lasers which make them the principle laser source for PDT will be discussed, as well as some of the commercially available configurations. The conclusion will examine the need for a tunable laser in the future of PDT.