Photodynamic therapy has been widely investigated over the past two decades and is emerging as a promising therapeutic modality for skin cancers and several inflammatory diseases. This growing interest is based on the availability of a new simple, effective and safe regimen using the topical application of a pro-drug, 5-aminolevulinic acid, as well as on the development of new "second generation" photosensitizers, namely 5-aminolevulinic acid-esters, phthalocyanines, chlorins, porphycenes and hypericin. In contrast to hematoporphyrin derivatives, these compounds are characterized by short-lasting generalized skin photosensitivity. These dyes are available for either topical or systemic delivery and are well characterized. The basic principles of PDT is more complex than chemotherapy or other pharmacological modalities. PDT involves not only a drug but an otherwise harmless compound that is activated by visible light. The interaction of these two treatment components is PDT. The variability of these both components results in a complexity of the treatment that may disorient the clinician who does not have specific experience in this field. This book aims to focus experimental and clinical findings on PDT in order to attract and direct the attention of a growing number of dermatologists.

This book is the most up-to-date publication on fluorescence diagnostic (FDAP) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) methods used in dermatology. Both techniques are presently world wide introduced as standards for the delineation and the treatment of cutaneous precancerous stages and tumors, which show steadily increasing numbers due to e.g. more frequent sun exposure. Summarizing experiences on more than 5.000 treated patients, it offers a comprehensive information on every aspect of skin tumor detection and treatment. The main part of the book focuses on the clinical aspects giving detailed descriptions on skin tumor detection as well as photodynamic treatment of selected diseases (solar keratoses, basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, Bowen's disease, psoriasis lesions, etc.). The clinically oriented chapters are supplemented by practical guidelines for PDT and FDAP. The included atlas is comprised of 270 high quality color figures allowing daily use as a handbook.

Comprehensive Series in Photochemical and Photobiological Sciences. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is increasingly being used amongst health practitioners in combating a variety of disease. This book reviews the current state of development of PDT, and also presents the foreseeable advancements of the field in the next decade. Practitioners in biological sciences, biotechnology and medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry will find this book an invaluable source of information. Chapters are drawn from research discusses at the 10th International Symposium on Photodynamic Therapy and Photodiagnosis in Clinical Practice in Brixen and are written and edited by leaders in the field. Mirroring the philosophy of that meeting, this book contains an informative balance of the basic sciences and clinical applications of PDT. Following an introduction to PDT, its history, and how techniques have developed, chapter serve as a practical guide for practitioners, covering topics such as sensitizer dosage and light dosage, and examples of relevant studies. The text goes further tp explore areas outside the medical field, such as the impact of PDT on society and the environment, and the economics of therapies. This book is dedicated to the memory of Professor Giulio Jori, and expert in this field, who sadly passed away on the 23rd December 2014.

For centuries, light has been used to cure various diseases. However, it is only recently that a new medical field has arisen. Photodynamic therapy (PDT), also known as photochemotherapy, is a fast growing technique which was initially devoted to cancer care but which is now recognised as a promising treatment technique in a variety of clinical fields. Written by recognised experts, Photodynamic Therapy provides a comprehensive explanation of what PDT is and how it has developed as a technique in areas such as the detection of lung cancer and applications in dermatology, gynaecology and neurosurgery. This book is ideal both as an introduction to PDT and as an informative text for those wishing to expand their knowledge. Practitioners in biological sciences, biotechnology and medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry will find it an invaluable source of information.

Imaging in Dermatology covers a large number of topics in dermatological imaging, the use of lasers in dermatology studies, and the implications of using these technologies in research. Written by the experts working in these exciting fields, the book explicitly addresses not only current applications of nanotechnology, but also discusses future trends of these ever-growing and rapidly changing fields, providing clinicians and researchers with a clear understanding of the advantages and challenges of laser and imaging technologies in skin medicine today, along with the cellular and molecular effects of these technologies. - Outlines the fundamentals of imaging and lasers for dermatology in clinical and research settings - Provides knowledge of current and future applications of dermatological imaging and lasers - Coherently structured book written by the experts working in the fields covered

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) has become an important treatment modality in medical practice. New and exciting applications continue to emerge and the future of PDT looks brighter and brighter. Dermatologists and other health professionals around the world rely on its therapeutic effect for the treatment of actinic keratoses, non-melanoma skin cancers, acne vulgaris, and various other dermatologic conditions. In this comprehensive yet concise book, world-renowned experts showcase all of the common, everyday uses of PDT in dermatologic offices. They also examine how this beneficial therapy can be utilized to its full capacity. The considerable knowledge presented here renders this publication an indispensable resource for all dermatologists and health professionals who offer their patients this effective, noninvasive procedure.