New mesothelioma treatments are being studied regularly, often in conjunction with other traditional treatments such as chemotherapy or surgery. One of these treatments is photodynamic therapy (PDT). A light-activated drug is injected into a vein, spreading throughout the body and eventually collecting in cancer cells. After several days, typically after mesothelioma surgery, a fixed frequency light is inserted into the cancer site through a fiber optic device allowing the light to be manipulated by the doctor.
The cancer cells die when exposed to the light which activates the drug that has been absorbed. The light exposure must be timed appropriately so that the normal cells have had time to discard the drug, while the cancerous cells are still holding on to it.
The major side effect of PDT is skin sensitivity, as well as nausea, vomiting, and sometimes a metallic taste in the mouth. Clinical trials are underway to evaluate PDT for cancers of the brain, skin, prostate, cervix and peritoneal cavity. While PDT is still undergoing testing, it has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment and relief of esophageal cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. The FDA approved agent is called porfirmer sodium, or Photofrin.
There are hundreds of clinical trials still accepting patients who have malignant mesothelioma. Finding the right clinical trial requires that you have information on all your options, particularly legal and financial. Mesothelioma treatments are expensive and must be received in a timely manner to be most effective. By contacting an experienced mesothelioma lawyer, you will learn what options you have, as well as information regarding good medical facilities. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Tags: FDA, mesothelioma
