Developments in Vascular-Targeted Photodynamic Therapy for Urologic Malignancies
Lucas Nogueira, Andrew Tracey, Ricardo Alvim, Peter A. Reisz, Avigdor Scherz, Jonathan Coleman, Kwanghee Kim
Abstract
With improved understanding of cancer biology and technical advancements in non-invasive management of urological malignancies, there is renewed interest in photodynamic therapy (PDT) as a means of focal cancer treatment. The application of PDT has also broadened as a result of development of better-tolerated and more effective photosensitizers. Vascular-targeted PDT (VTP) using padeliporfin, which is a water-soluble chlorophyll derivative, allows for tumor-specific cytotoxicity and has demonstrated efficacy in the management of urologic malignancies. Herein, we describe the evolution of photodynamic therapy in urologic oncology and the role of VTP in emerging treatment paradigms.