Effectiveness of Photodynamic Therapy in Preinvasive Cervical Cancer Treatment

Article Plan⁚ Effectiveness of Photodynamic Therapy in Preinvasive Cervical Cancer Treatment

Introduction to Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment method that involves the use of a photosensitizer, an appropriate wavelength of light, and oxygen to induce targeted cell death.​ Originally developed in Germany over a century ago, PDT has evolved and is now utilized in dermatology and cancer therapy.​ This innovative approach aims to selectively destroy pathological tissues while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy cells.​

Background Information on Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is a malignant tumor that originates in the cervix, categorized into adenocarcinoma (AC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).​ Notably, SCC arises from the outer squamous cells of the cervix, while AC develops from the glandular cells inside the cervix.​ With a higher prevalence rate of about 70%, SCC is a major concern globally.​ This type of cancer poses significant health risks, with a high incidence and mortality rate reported worldwide. Efforts to inhibit the growth of cervical cancer cells have led to various treatment approaches, including photodynamic therapy (PDT), which offers a non-invasive and promising therapeutic option for cancer management.​

Study on the Effectiveness of PDT in Preinvasive Cervical Cancer Treatment

The research examined the application of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) in the treatment of preinvasive cervical cancer.​ The study enrolled 45 patients aged 22-53 years with preinvasive cervical cancer, classified into two groups based on the type of transformation area and tumor location.​ High-risk HPV genotypes were detected in the majority of the subjects.​ The treatment consisted of PDT using specific photosensitizers and laser irradiation.​ The effectiveness criteria included normalization of colposcopic findings and confirmation of pathogen elimination through PCR analysis. Results indicated a positive outcome in terms of cytogram normalization and HPV elimination post-PDT treatment.​ The study further demonstrated the long-term efficacy of PDT in preventing recurrences and preserving reproductive function.​ Overall, the findings support the use of PDT as an alternative treatment for preinvasive cervical cancer, emphasizing the importance of organ preservation and functional integrity.​

Procedure and Methodology of the Study

The study encompassed 45 patients diagnosed with preinvasive cervical cancer, aged between 22 and 53 years, categorized based on the transformation area and tumor location. High-risk HPV genotypes were prevalent among the participants.​ The treatment protocol involved Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) utilizing specific photosensitizers and laser irradiation. Criteria for effectiveness included the normalization of colposcopic findings and confirmation of pathogen elimination through PCR analysis.​ Notably, PDT was administered using a semiconductor Latus laser and various photosensitizers such as photoditazine and photolon.​ The patients were monitored post-treatment for cytogram normalization, HPV elimination, and recurrence rates, with positive outcomes observed in colposcopic profiles and HPV elimination.​ The maximum follow-up period of 4.5 years displayed no recurrences and highlighted successful reproductive function preservation, reinforcing the efficacy of PDT in the treatment of preinvasive cervical cancer.​

Results of the Study

The study observed encouraging results following Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) in patients with preinvasive cervical cancer. Post-PDT treatment, normalization of colposcopic profiles was achieved in 84% of group 1 and 88% of group 2 patients.​ Notably٫ PCR analysis at the 3-month mark displayed positive HPV reactions in only 9.​1% of cases.​ Over the 4.​5-year follow-up٫ no recurrences were reported٫ with three young women successfully delivering healthy children.​ The study further demonstrated the sustained effectiveness of PDT in eliminating HPV and preserving reproductive function٫ emphasizing its potential as an alternative and successful method for treating preinvasive cervical cancer.​

Conclusions Drawn from the Study

The study concludes that Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) serves as a viable and effective alternative for managing preinvasive cervical cancer.​ With a focus on preserving the anatomical and functional integrity of the cervix, PDT showcased promising outcomes in terms of cytogram normalization, HPV eradication, and long-term prevention of recurrences.​ The ability of PDT to sustain reproductive function while targeting pre-tumor and initial tumor pathology highlights its significance in providing a non-invasive and successful approach to treating preinvasive cervical cancer.​ The findings support the utilization of PDT as a valuable therapeutic option, emphasizing the importance of organ preservation and functional integrity in the management of preinvasive cervical cancer.​