Evaluation of unilateral corneal collagen cross-linking on fellow untreated eyes of patients with keratoconus / A avaliação da reticulação unilateral do colágeno corneano em olhos não tratados de pacientes com ceratocone

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to examine the effects of unilateral corneal collagen cross-linking treatment on visual acuity and the topographic findings of the fellow untreated eye of patients who had bilateral progressive keratoconus. Methods: Patients with progressive keratoconus who underwent cross-linking treatment were screened retrospectively. A total of 188 untreated eyes of 188 patients whose eyes were treated unilaterally with either standard or accelerated cross-linking and refused cross-linking procedure for the fellow eye were included. Visual acuity and topographic findings of the fellow untreated eyes were obtained preoperatively and postoperatively at the 1st, 3rd, 6th, 12th, 24th, 30th, and 36th months. Results: The change over time of variables examined was similar in the untreated eyes of patients who received standard and accelerated cross-linking methods (p>0.05). At the 12th month, 136 (95.8%) untreated eyes were stable according to progression criteria. Only 4 (8%) eyes were progressive at the 24th month. No progression was observed in any of the 16 patients with a 36-month follow up. Conclusions: The results showed that the fellow untreated eyes of patients with bilateral progressive keratoconus did not have significant progression rates after unilateral cross-linking treatment.

RESUMO Objetivo: Examinar os efeitos do tratamento de reticulação unilateral do colágeno corneano na acuidade visual e os achados topográficos em olhos não tratados de pacientes com ceratocone progressivo bilateral. Métodos: Foram rastreados retrospectivamente pacientes com ceratocone progressivo submetidos a tratamento de reticulação. Foram incluídos no estudo 188 olhos não tratados de 188 pacientes tratado unilateralmente com reticulação padrão ou acelerada e que recusaram o procedimento de reticulação no outro olho. A acuidade visual e os achados topográficos dos olhos não tratados foram obtidos no pré- e pós-operatório no 1º, 3º, 6º, 12º, 24º, 30º e 36º mês. Resultados: As alterações ao longo do tempo foram semelhantes para as variáveis examinadas nos olhos não tratados de pacientes tratados com métodos de reticulação padrão e acelerado (p>0,05). No 12º mês, 136 olhos não tratados (95,8%) estavam estáveis, de acordo com os critérios de progressão. Apenas quatro olhos (8%) mostraram progressão no 24º mês. Nenhuma progressão foi observada nos 16 pacientes que tiveram um acompanhamento de 36 meses. Conclusões: O estudo mostrou que os olhos não tratados de pacientes com ceratocone progressivo bilateral não apresentaram taxas de progressão significativas após o tratamento unilateral com reticulação.

Ocorrência de carcinoma espinocelular labial não melanocítico em usuários crônicos de hidroclorotiazida / Occurrence of non-melanoma labial squamous cell carcinoma in chronic users of hydrochlorothiazide

Diversos autores desenvolveram estudos acerca da potencial associação entre a etiocarcinogênese do carcinoma espinocelular não melanocítico (CECNM) labial e o uso crônico da hidroclorotiazida (HCTZ). Objetivo: A atual revisão objetivou investigar a relação do diurético HCTZ e o risco de CECNM labial. Métodos: Realizou-se uma revisão de literatura nas bases de dados LILACS, PUBMED/MEDLINE e Periódico CAPES, em que foram incluídos artigos em inglês, português e francês, publicados no período de 2017 a 2022. Foram propostos 60 documentos e, dentre esses, 30 foram selecionados para compor a amostra no estudo. Resultados: Foi evidenciada uma relação entre o uso da HCTZ e a ocorrência de CENM com relação dose cumulativa devido às alterações provocadas pelo fármaco, no entanto, em virtude da heterogeneidade de desenhos metodológicos e concentração dos estudos em populações semelhantes, existem limitações quanto à confiabilidade dessas informações. Conclusão: Identificou-se uma desproporção entre a ocorrência e relevância do CENM e a produção científica vigente, demonstrando a necessidade de estudos com metodologias padronizadas que abranjam diferentes especificidades socioeconômicas e demográficas.(AU)

Several authors have developed studies about a potential association between the etiocarcinogenesis of non-melanocytic lip squamous cell carcinoma (NMSCC) and the chronic use of hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ). Objective: The current study aimed to investigate the relation between the diuretic HCTZ and the risk of lip NMSCC. Methods: A literature review was carried out in the LILACS, PUBMED/MEDLINE and CAPES Periodical databases, which included articles in English, Portuguese and French, published between 2017 and 2022. Sixty documents were collected and, among these, 30 were selected to compose the sample in the study. Results: There was evidence of a relationship between the use of HCTZ and the occurrence of MSCC with a cumulative dose relationship due to changes caused by the drug, however, because of the heterogeneity of methodological designs and concentration of studies in similar populations, there are limitations regarding the reliability of this information. Conclusion: A disproportion between the occurrence and relevance of the NMSCC and the current scientific production was identified, demonstrating the need for studies with standardized methodologies that cover different demographic socioeconomic specificities.(AU)

Comparative in vitro study of intracanal Enterococcus faecalis reduction using photosensitizers in aPDT

Aim: To compare Enterococcus faecalis reduction after antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) used with methylene blue, toluidine blue, tannin, and curcumin as photosensitizers, an adjunct to endodontic chemomechanical preparation (CMP) in root canals of human teeth. Methods: A total of 120 single-rooted teeth were divided into 6 groups (n = 20): G1- CMP and 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl); G2- CMP and saline solution; G3- CMP, 2.5% NaOCl, and aPDT with 0.005% methylene blue; G4- CMP, 2.5% NaOCl, and aPDT with 0.005% toluidine blue; G5- CMP, 2.5% NaOCl, and aPDT with 0.005% tannin; and G6- CMP, 2.5% NaOCl, and aPDT with 0.005% curcumin. A portable semiconductor laser was used (660 nm, 100 mW, 1.8 J, 180s) in groups 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and a blue LED light-curing (420-480 nm, 1200 mV/cm2 ) in G6. For all groups, a 5 min pre-irradiation time was applied. Samples were collected before (initial collection), immediately after (intermediate collection) and 7 days after CMP (final collection) for colony-forming unit (CFU) counting. The Kruskal-Wallis test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were performed (p < 0.05; 95% confidence interval). Results: In between-group comparisons, there was no significant difference observed in the number of CFUs at the initial (p >< 0.001) and final collections (p >< 0.001) for G2 and G3. In within-group comparisons, the number of CFUs showed a decreasing trend in G4 (p = 0.007) and G5 (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Photosensitizers promoted E. faecalis reduction, with better results for tannin and curcumin. Alternative photosensitizers should be the focus of further studies.>< 0.05; 95% confidence interval). Results: In between-group comparisons, there was no significant difference observed in the number of CFUs at the initial (p < 0.001) and final collections (p >< 0.001) for G2 and G3. In within-group comparisons, the number of CFUs showed a decreasing trend in G4 (p = 0.007) and G5 (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Photosensitizers promoted E. faecalis reduction, with better results for tannin and curcumin. Alternative photosensitizers should be the focus of further studies.>< 0.001) and final collections (p < 0.001) for G2 and G3. In within-group comparisons, the number of CFUs showed a decreasing trend in G4 (p = 0.007) and G5 (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Photosensitizers promoted E. faecalis reduction, with better results for tannin and curcumin. Alternative photosensitizers should be the focus of further studies>< 0.001) for G2 and G3. In within-group comparisons, the number of CFUs showed a decreasing trend in G4 (p = 0.007) and G5 (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Photosensitizers promoted E. faecalis reduction, with better results for tannin and curcumin. Alternative photosensitizers should be the focus of further studies

Application of photodynamic therapy in gastrointestinal disorders: an outdated or re-emerging technique?

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising therapeutic modality that involves the administration of a photosensitizer followed by local illumination with a specific wavelength of light in the presence of oxygen. PDT is minimally invasive, has high selectivity for cancer, and has good patient compliance due to the simplicity of the procedure; therefore, PDT is widely used as a palliative and salvage treatment in patients with various gastrointestinal malignancies. When used as a salvage treatment for locoregional failures after definitive chemoradiotherapy for esophageal cancer, favorable results have been reported. PDT in conjunction with biliary stenting is a promising palliative treatment for unresectable cholangiocarcinoma, and can be used as an advanced diagnostic and therapeutic strategy in peritoneal dissemination of gastric cancer. Recent clinical reports of PDT for treating non-resectable pancreatic cancer also show promising results. To widen the application of PDT, the integration of PDT with molecular imaging and nanotechnology is being extensively studied. Based on these new developments, PDT is likely to re-emerge as a valuable technique in the treatment of diverse gastrointestinal diseases.

Photodynamic action of protoporphyrin IX derivatives on Trichophyton rubrum

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dermatophytes are filamentous keratinophilic fungi. Trichophyton rubrum is a prevalent infectious agent in tineas and other skin diseases. Drug therapy is considered to be limited in the treatment of such infections, mainly due to low accessibility of the drug to the tissue attacked and development of antifungal resistance in these microorganisms. In this context, Photodynamic Therapy is presented as an alternative. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate, in vitro, the photodynamic activity of four derivatives of Protoporphyrin IX by irradiation with LED 400 nm in T. rubrum. METHOD: Assays were subjected to irradiation by twelve cycles of ten minutes at five minute intervals. RESULT: Photodynamic action appeared as effective with total elimination of UFCs from the second irradiation cycle. CONCLUSION: Studies show that the photodynamic activity on Trichophyton rubrum relates to a suitable embodiment of the photosensitizer, which can be maximized by functionalization of peripheral groups of the porphyrinic ring.

Análise imunoistoquímica após terapia fotodinâmica com cloro-alumínio ftalocianina em tecidos gengivais de humanos / Immunohistochemical analyzes after photodynamic therapy with chloro-aluminum phthalocyanine in human gingival tissues

Embora a terapia fotodinâmica venha sendo utilizada como uma ferramenta útil nos últimos 30 anos em oncologia, poucos estudos clínicos em odontologia têm sido conduzidos. A terapia fotodinâmica (TFD) utiliza fotossensibilizantes atóxicos e seletivos que são administrados nas células alvo seguida de aplicação local de luz visível, produzindo espécies reativas de oxigênio capazes de ocasionar morte celular por apoptose ou necrose, de afetar a vascularidade local, além de exercer importantes efeitos no sistema imune. Novas gerações de fármacos fotossensibilizantes, como as ftalocianinas nanoparticuladas tem apresentado excelentes resultados na atividade antitumoral e antibacteriana. Neste contexto, o presente trabalho realizou o primeiro protocolo clínico de aplicação local da nanoemulsão de cloroalumínio ftalocianina (AlClFc) seguida de irradiação em gengiva de humanos, e analisou descritiva e comparativamente, por meio de imunoistoquímica, a expressão de RANK, RANKL, OPG e VEGF em um modelo split-mouth. Oito voluntários saudáveis com indicação clínica de exodontia foram incluídos no estudo. Sete dias antes da exodontia, foi aplicado na gengiva dos participantes, 5µM de nanoemulsão de AlClFc seguida de irradiação com laser diodo (660nm, 7J/cm2), o lado contralateral foi utilizado como controle. Os espécimes teciduais foram removidos sete dias após a TFD e subdivididos em dois grupos (grupo teste e grupo controle) para análise histológica e imunoistoquímica. Os pacientes foram monitorados no dia aplicação, 7, 14 e 30 dias após a terapia para avaliação de efeitos adversos da terapia. Alterações vasculares foram observadas nas amostras gengivais que receberam a TFD. Áreas de edema e congestão vascular, além de intensa vascularização foram visualizadas. Adicionalmente, focos de calcificação distrófica em região subepitelial foram visualizados nos espécimes do grupo teste. Os resultados demonstraram um padrão similar dos escores de imunomarcação de RANK, RANKL e VEGF entre os grupos teste e controle, não havendo diferença estatística significante (p=0.317, p=0.777, p=0.814, respectivamente). RANK e RANKL exibiram imunomarcação fraca ou ausente na maioria dos espécimes analisados. Não houve imunomarcação para a OPG. O VEGF mostrou imunomarcação moderada a forte nos espécimes do grupo teste. Adicionalmente, o estudo clínico mostrou que a terapia foi bem tolerada por todos os pacientes. Os efeitos adversos foram de curta duração e totalmente reversíveis. Tomados em conjunto, os resultados apresentados neste estudo mostraram que o protocolo utilizado por nós, mediado por nanoemulsão contendo AlClFc, é seguro para aplicação clínica em tecido gengival e, sugerem uma forte imunomarcação para o VEGF após a terapia. (AU)

Although photodynamic therapy have been used as a useful tool over the past 30 years in oncology, few clinical trials have been conducted in dentistry. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses non-toxic photosensitizers and selective which are administered in target cells followed by local application of visible light, producing reactive oxygen species capable of causing cell death by apoptosis or necrosis, injured the local vasculature, and exert important effects on the immune system. New generations of photosensitizing agents, such as nanoparticulate phthalocyanines, has shown excellent results in antitumor and antibacterial activity . In this context, the present work constitutes the first clinical protocol of local application of nanoemulsion chloro-aluminum phthalocyanine (AlClFc) followed by irradiation in human gingiva, and analyzed descriptively and comparatively , by means of immunohistochemistry , the expression of RANK , RANKL , OPG and VEGF in a split -mouth model. Eight healthy volunteers with clinical indication for extraction were included in the study . Seven days before the extraction, was injected in the gingiva of participants, 5µM of nanoemulsion AlClFc followed by irradiation with diode laser (660nm, 7J/cm2 ), the contralateral side was used as control. Tissue specimens were removed seven days after the TFD is performed. Tissues sample were divided into two groups (test and control groups) for histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Patients were monitored at days, 0, 7, 14 and 30 to assess adverse effects of the therapy. Vascular alterations were seen in gingival samples that received PDT. Areas of edema and vascular congestion, and intense vascularization were viewed . Additionally, dystrophic calcification in subepithelial region were observed in the test group. The results showed a similar pattern of immunostaining scores of RANK, RANKL and VEGF between the test and control groups, with no statistically significant difference (p = 0.317, p = 0.777, p = 0.814, respectively). RANK and RANKL exhibited weak or absent immunostaining in most specimens analyzed. There was no immunostaining for OPG. VEGF showed moderate to strong immunostaining in specimens from the test group. In addition, the clinical study showed that therapy was well tolerated by all patients. Adverse effects were short-time and completely reversible. Taken together, the results presented in this study showed that PDT mediated by nanoemulsion containing AlClPc is safe for clinical application in gingival tissue and suggests that a strong immunostaining for VEGF after therapy. (AU)

Photodynamic therapy of basal cell carcinoma and factors affecting the response to treatment / 中国医师杂志

Objective To investigate efficacy and safety of photodynamic therapy on basal cell carcinomas.Methods Twenty three cases of basal cell carcinomas were given with photosensitizer 5-amino acid (ALA) ketone spreading on skin lesions.Reddish illumination was taken at 4h later with energy density at 100 J/cm2,40 min/time,and weekly for a total of 4 weeks; and 2 year followup in the study was evaluated recurrence retrospectively.Results Among twenty three patients with basal cell carcinomas,15 were cured(65.22％),5 partially (21.74％) remitted,and 3 ineffective (13.04％),with the efficiency 86.96％.None of the resolved lesions recurred during the 6-month follow-up period,and 3 cases were recurred within 1 year (20％).Repeated ALA-photodynamic therapy (PDT) treatment,recurred lesions were completely resolved.There were no additional recurrences after 2 year.ALA-PDT was well tolerated,and adverse effects were limited to mild local pain and erythema.Only three patients were complained of erythema and edema.Complete response rate was higher in younger patients (t =-2.94,P ＜0.01) and those with smaller lesions (t =-5.92,P ＜ 0.01).Superficial type had also significant higher response rate (x2 =27.17,P ＜ 0.01).Conclusions The application of photodynamic therapy in treatment of basal cell carcinoma is effective with less painfulness,non-invasiveness,and without side effect.It demonstrated a good efficacy and satisfactory cosmetic outcomes.

Effects of adjunctive daily phototherapy on chronic periodontitis: a randomized single-blind controlled trial

PURPOSE: The purpose of this randomized single-blind controlled trial was to elucidate the clinical and antimicrobial effects of daily phototherapy (PT) as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) in patients with chronic periodontitis. METHODS: The study was conducted from December 2013 to May 2014 at Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, Korea. Forty-one patients with mild to moderate chronic periodontitis were randomly divided into two therapeutic groups in a 1:1 ratio: SRP+PT and SRP (control) groups. All participants underwent full-mouth SRP. PT was performed thrice a day for a month by using electric toothbrushes with embedded light-emitting diodes. Plaque index, gingival index, probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and bleeding on probing were assessed before (baseline) and four weeks after (follow-up) the treatment. Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola, Prevotella intermedia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Parvimonas micra, Campylobacter rectus, Eikenella corrodens, Streptococcus mutans, and Streptococcus sobrinus levels were detected by a real-time polymerase chain reaction at the same points in time. RESULTS: The clinical parameters improved in both the groups. At the follow-up assessment, PPD was significantly decreased in the SRP+PT group (P=0.00). Further, PPD and CAL showed significantly greater changes in the SRP+PT group than in the SRP group (PPD, P=0.03; CAL, P=0.04). P. gingivalis and T. forsythia levels decreased in this group, but no significant intergroup differences were noted. CONCLUSIONS: Adjunctive PT seems to have clinical benefits, but evidence of its antimicrobial effects is not sufficient. Long-term studies are necessary to develop the most effective PT protocol and compare the effectiveness of PT with and without exogenous photosensitizers.

Ação da clorofila como fotossensibilizador e do LED como fonte de luz alternativa na terapia fotodinâmica antimicrobiana contra o Enterococcusfaecalis / Effect of chlorophyll as photosensitizer and LED as an alternative light source on Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy against Enterococcus faecalis

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar o efeito da Terapia Fotodinâmica antimicrobiana (TFDa) sobre o Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), in vitro, utilizando a clorofila (CL) como agente fotossensibilizador (FS) e o diodo emissor de luz (LED) como fonte de luz. A cultura pura de E. faecalis foi ativada em caldo de BHI a 37oC por 24h. O cultivo do microrganismo foi centrifugado a 3000rpm por 15min, e o pellet re-suspenso em 0,85% de solução salina. As concentrações da bactéria foram ajustadas para 107UFC mL-1 (unidades formadoras de colônias por mililitro). Diferentes tipos de solventes para a CL foram testados: éter, álcool de cereais, Tween 80 e P-123. 100l do inóculo e o mesmo volume da solução teste foram inseridos em cada poço da placa de microtitulação. A mistura foi agitada e aguardou-se 1min. 25l da suspensão foi removida e diluições seriadas foram realizadas. Alíquotas de cada diluição foram espalhadas na superfície da placa, armazenadas em microaerofilia e incubadas na estufa por 24h a 37oC. O número de UFC foi contado em cada placa. Para o experimento da TFDa, os grupos foram divididos em: controle (G1); TBO 1min (G2); CL+Tween 1min (G3); CL+Tween 5min (G4); CL+P-123 1min (G5); CL+P-123 5min (G6); CL+Tween 1min + LED 1min (G7); CL+Tween 1min + LED 5min (G8); CL+Tween 5min + LED 1min (G9); CL+Tween 5min + LED 5min (G10); CL+P-123 1min + LED 1min (G11); CL+P-123 1min + LED 5min (G12); CL+P-123 5min + LED 1min (G13); CL+P-123 5min + LED 5min (G14); TBO 1min + LED 1min (G15); TBO 1min + LED 5min (G16); LED 1min (G17); LED 5min (G18).Um volume de 100l da suspensão bacteriana foi inserido em poços da placa e o mesmo volume da solução do FS foi adicionado. A CL foi solubilizada em soluções aquosas de Tween ou P-123. Cada poço foi agitado e o tempo de préirradiação foi de 1 ou 5min. O LED foi acionado durante 1 ou 5min. 25l da suspensão foi submetida a diluições seriadas e as alíquotas de cada diluição foram espalhadas na superfície da placa em Ágar BHI...

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy (aPDT) against Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), in vitro, using chlorophyll (CL) as photosensitizer (FS) agent and light-emitting diode (LED) as light source. Pure culture of E. faecalis was cultivated in BHI broth at 37oC for 24h. The culture was centrifuged at 3000rpm for 15min, and the pellets were resuspended in 0.85% saline solution. The bacterial concentrations were adjusted to 107CFU mL-1 (colony forming units per milliliter). Different types of solvents for CL were tested: ether, grain alcohol, Tween 80 and P-123. 100l of inoculum and the same volume of the test solution were inserted into each well of the microtitre plate. The mixture was mixed and 1 min was awaited. 25l of the suspension was removed and serial dilutions were performed. Aliquots of each dilution were spread on the surface of the plates, stored in microaerophilic conditions and incubated for 24h at 37oC. The number CFU was counted in each plate. For aPDT experiment, the groups were divided into: control (G1); TBO 1min (G2); CL+Tween 1min (G3); CL+Tween 5min (G4); CL+P-123 1min (G5); CL+P-123 5min (G6); CL+Tween 1min + LED 1min (G7); CL+Tween 1min + LED 5min (G8); CL+Tween 5min + LED 1min (G9); CL+Tween 5min + LED 5min (G10); CL+P-123 1min + LED 1min (G11); CL+P-123 1min + LED 5min (G12); CL+P-123 5min + LED 1min (G13); CL+P-123 5min + LED 5min (G14); TBO 1min + LED 1min (G15); TBO 1min + LED 5min (G16); LED 1min (G17); LED 5min (G18). A volume of 100l of bacterial suspension was inserted into the well of microtitre plate and the same volume of FS was added. CL was solubilized in aqueous solution of Tween and P-123. Each well was mixed and preirradiation time was 1 or 5min. LED was irradiated during 1 or 5 min. 25l of suspension was subjected to serial dilutions and aliquots of each dilution were spread on the surface of agar BHI plates. The plates were stored and incubated at 37oC for 24h...

Advance in Photosensitizers and Light Delivery for Photodynamic Therapy

The brief history of photodynamic therapy (PDT) research has been focused on photosensitizers (PSs) and light delivery was introduced recently. The appropriate PSs were developed from the first generation PS Photofrin (QLT) to the second (chlorins or bacteriochlorins derivatives) and third (conjugated PSs on carrier) generations PSs to overcome undesired disadvantages, and to increase selective tumor accumulation and excellent targeting. For the synthesis of new chlorin PSs chlorophyll a is isolated from natural plants or algae, and converted to methyl pheophorbide a (MPa) as an important starting material for further synthesis. MPa has various active functional groups easily modified for the preparation of different kinds of PSs, such as methyl pyropheophorbide a, purpurin-18, purpurinimide, and chlorin e6 derivatives. Combination therapy, such as chemotherapy and photothermal therapy with PDT, is shortly described here. Advanced light delivery system is shown to establish successful clinical applications of PDT. Phtodynamic efficiency of the PSs with light delivery was investigated in vitro and/or in vivo.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): PDT Mechanisms

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a light based therapy used to ablate tumors. As practiced in oncology a photosensitizing agent is applied and then activated by a specific wavelength and energy of light. This light energy in the presence of oxygen will lead to the creation of the photodynamic reaction which is cyto and vasculo toxic. This paper will review the mechanisms of action of PDT and how they may be manipulated to improve clinical outcome in cancer patients.

Current Status of Photodynamic Therapy for Bile Duct Cancer

The most common form in bile duct cancers is a highly desmoplastic cancer with a growth pattern characterized by periductal extension and infiltration. The prognosis of bile duct cancers, especially hilar cholangiocarcinoma, is limited by tumor spread along the biliary tree leading to refractory obstructive cholestasis, cholangitis, and liver failure. Although biliary endoprosthesis improves occlusion rates and reduces the number of therapeutic interventions, median survival time is not ameliorated. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a local photochemical tumor treatment that consists of a photosensitizing agent in combination with laser irradiation of a distinct wavelength. Tumor ablation with PDT combined with biliary stenting reduces cholestasis and significantly improves median survival time in selected patients with bile duct cancers.

Pain in photodynamic therapy: mechanism of action and management strategies / Dor na terapia fotodinâmica: mecanismo de ação e estratégias de manejo

Photodynamic therapy involves administration of a photosensitizing drug and its subsequent activation by irradiation with a light source at wavelengths matching the absorption spectrum of the photosensitizer. In many countries around the world, topical photodynamic therapy has been approved for treatment of cutaneous oncologic conditions such as actinic keratosis, Bowen's disease, and superficial basal cell carcinoma. Multicenter, randomized, controlled studies have confirmed its efficacy and superior cosmetic outcomes compared to conventional therapies. Nevertheless, this therapeutic method presents some adverse effects, such as erythema, edema, pigmentation, pustules, and pain. There is no doubt that pain is the most severe of the adverse effects, being sometimes responsible for definitive treatment interruption. The pain mechanism has not yet been fully understood, which makes complete pain control a challenge to be conquered. In spite of that, this literature review presents some useful pain management strategies as well as the most important pain-related factors in photodynamic therapy.

A terapia fotodinâmica consiste na administração de uma droga fotossensibilizante e sua subseqüente irradiação com uma fonte de luz de espectro correspondente ao do seu fotossensibilizador. Em diversos países do mundo, a terapia fotodinâmica tópica é aprovada para o tratamento de condições oncológicas cutâneas como queratoses actínicas, doença de Bowen e carcinoma basocelular superficial. Estudos multicêntricos controlados e randomizados confirmam sua eficácia e seus resultados cosméticos superiores em relação às terapias convencionais. No entanto, existem alguns efeitos adversos inerentes a esse método terapêutico, como eritema, edema, pigmentação, pústulas e dor. Essa última é, sem dúvida, a mais importante deles, chegando a ser responsável pela interrupção definitiva do tratamento em alguns casos. O mecanismo dessa dor permanece ainda não completamente entendido. Tal fato faz do controle total da dor durante a terapia fotodinâmica um desafio ainda a ser conquistado. Apesar disso, esta revisão apresenta algumas estratégias que podem ajudar os pacientes a tolerar melhor a terapia fotodinâmica, além de relacionar os principais fatores ligados à dor descritos na literatura.

Application of nanoparticle vectors in photodynamic therapy of tumors / 国际肿瘤学杂志

For the past few years,with the extensive application of nanoparticle technology in photodynamic therapy (PDT) of cancers,there have been some improvements of the stability of photosensitizers,the tumor targeting,the working depth and the yield of singlet oxygen by a variety of ways.Furthermore,with nanoparticle,PDT also can be combined with some other treatments together.Finally,the use of nanoparticle vectors for PDT is a novel and promising approach which might improve the efficiency of photodynamic therapy for tumors,overcome many adverse effects and increase the indications of PDT.

Effect of corneal epithelium on ultraviolet-A and riboflavin absorption / Efeito do epitélio na absorção corneana de raios ultravioleta-A e riboflavina

PURPOSE: To determine if the corneal epithelium prevents the collagen cross-linking effect. Using immunofluorescence microscopy after CXL, we indirectly analyzed the role of the epithelium as ultraviolet-A (UVA) shield as well as a barrier to riboflavin penetration. METHODS: Fifteen freshly enucleated porcine eyes were divided into 3 groups. The corneal epithelium was kept intact in all groups. Five eyes served as control (Group 1). On group 2, eyes received tetracaine anesthetic drops and topical 0.1 percent riboflavin solution (10 mg riboflavin-5-phosphate in 10 mL 20 percent dextran-T-500). On Group 3, riboflavin was injected into the anterior chamber to allow penetration of the drug through the endothelium. Groups 2 and 3 were exposed to UVA (365 nm, 3 mW/cm²) for 30 minutes. Ultra-thin sections (8 µm) of the corneas were stained with anti-collagen type I and DAPI (4,6-diamidino-2-fenilindole dihydrocloride) and analyzed with fluorescence microscopy. RESULTS: Corneas treated with UVA irradiation and intracameral injection of riboflavin (Group 3) showed greater pattern of collagen organization compared to groups 1 (Control) and 2 (riboflavin and tetracaine eye drops). A yellow stromal staining, which represents the riboflavin diffusion into the stroma, was only observed in eyes injected with riboflavin into the anterior chamber. CONCLUSION: Using immunofluorescence microscopy in porcine corneas, we demonstrated that the corneal epithelium reduces the effectiveness of CXL by preventing the penetration of the drug and not by limiting the UVA transmittance. An inadequate intrastromal concentration of riboflavin may impair CXL effect.

OBJETIVO: Determinar se o epitélio corneano pode impedir ou diminuir o efeito do tratamento com "cross-linking" (CXL). Por meio de microscopia por imunofluorescência, foi indiretamente analisado o efeito do epitélio como escudo aos raios ultravioleta-A (UVA), assim como barreia à penetração da riboflavina. MÉTODOS: Quinze olhos enucleados de porcos foram divididos em 3 grupos. O epitélio corneano foi mantido intacto em todos os grupos. Cinco olhos serviram como controle (Grupo 1). No grupo 2, os olhos foram instilados com colírio anestésico de tetracaína, assim como colírio de riboflavina 0,1 por cento (10 mg de riboflavina-5-fosfato em 10 ml de dextran 20 por cento T-500). No grupo 3, solução de riboflavina foi injetada na câmara anterior para permitir a penetração da droga através do endotélio. Os grupos 2 e 3 foram então expostos à radiação UVA (365 nm, 3 mW/cm²) por 30 minutos. Subsequentemente, cortes ultrafinos (8 µm) das córneas foram marcados com anticolágeno tipo I e DAPI (4,6-diamidino-2-fenilindole dihydrocloride) e analisados com microscópio de imunofluorescência. RESULTADOS: As córneas que receberam injeção intracameral de riboflavina e foram irradiadas com UVA (Grupo 3) mostraram um padrão maior de organização das fibras de colágeno em relação aos grupos 1 (Controle) e 2 (instiladas com colírio anestésico e de riboflavina). Macroscopicamente, a coloração amarelada do estroma, que representa a difusão da riboflavina, foi apenas observada nos olhos que receberam riboflavina intracameral. CONCLUSÃO: Foi demonstrado, através de microscopia por imunofluorescência em córneas de porcos, que o epitélio corneano íntegro diminui a efetividade do CXL por reduzir a penetração da riboflavina, e não por impedir a penetração dos raios UVA. Uma concentração intraestromal inadequada de riboflavina limita o efeito do tratamento.

The Role of Photodynamic Therapy for Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma

The prognosis for hilar cholangiocarcinoma is limited by tumor spread along the biliary tree leading to refractory obstructive cholestasis, cholangitis, and liver failure. Palliation with biliary endoprostheses results in median survival times of 4-6 months for advanced bile duct cancer. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a local photochemical tumor treatment consisting of a photosensitizing agent combined with laser irradiation of a distinct wavelength. Tumor ablation with PDT combined with biliary stenting reduces cholestasis and significantly improves median survival time. However, the treatment is not widely available, and the photosensitizers used for PDT cause prolonged photosensitivity. Optimum control of tumor spread along the bile ducts and control of cholestasis and cholangitis will prolong survival in one to two thirds of patients, and renders them suitable for other antitumor therapies.

Efeito terapêutico do "cross-linking" corneano na ceratopatia bolhosa sintomática / Therapeutic effect of corneal cross-linking on symptomatic bullous keratophaty

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o efeito do "cross-linking" corneano na ceratopatia bolhosa sintomática e seu impacto na acuidade visual, espessura corneana e sintomatologia dolorosa. MÉTODOS: Doze pacientes com ceratopatia bolhosa sintomática foram incluídos. Exame clínico com questionário específico para a pesquisa com escala de dor (escala visual analógica numérica), acuidade visual e mensuração da espessura corneana foi realizada pré "cross-linking" corneano, 7, 30 e 60 dias após. Em todos os pacientes o tratamento com UVA-crosslinking foi realizado após abrasão do epitélio corneano na lâmpada de fenda e instilação de solução de riboflavina 0,1 por cento a cada 5 minutos por 30 minutos. Após esse período o paciente foi submetido à exposição à luz ultravioleta A (UVA), utilizando riboflavina e anestesia tópica a cada 5 minutos por 30 minutos. O paciente utilizou colírios de ofloxacina 0,3 por cento e lágrima artificial até completa reepitelização. O teste de Friedman foi usado para comparar as médias das frequências da acuidade visual, sintomatologia dolorosa e espessura central da córnea. Os valores de "p" menor que 0,05 foram considerados como estatisticamente significantes. RESULTADOS: Doze olhos de 12 pacientes com erosões epiteliais recorrentes foram tratados. O tempo de seguimento foi de dois meses. Foi observada redução significante da dor (p<0,001). As medidas da espessura corneana e da acuidade visual não sofreram alterações estatisticamente significantes. CONCLUSÃO: Foi constatado o potencial de aplicação do "cross-linking" corneano no tratamento de pacientes com dor causada por ceratopatia bolhosa. É necessário maior seguimento para confirmar se os resultados podem ser reproduzidos em longo prazo.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the corneal cross-linking (CXL) effect on symptomatic bullous keratopathy, and its impact on the visual acuity, corneal thickness and pain symptomatology. METHODS: Twelve patients with symptomatic bullous keratophaty were included. A clinical examination with a specific questionnaire (pain scale - visual numeric analog scale), visual acuity, and corneal thickness measures was performed before corneal cross-linking and 7, 30 and 60 days after the procedure. In all patients, the treatment with the UVA-crosslinking was done after corneal abrasion on the slit-lamp and instillation of 0.1 percent riboflavin in saline for every five minutes, lasting 30 minutes. Subsequently, the patient underwent the UVA light exposure, using riboflavin and topical anesthesia, every five minutes lasting 30 minutes. The patient received 0.3 percent ofloxacine drops, and artificial tears until complete reepithelization. The Friedman test was used to compare the means of frequencies of visual acuity, pain symptoms and corneal thickness. A "p" value <0.05 was considered for rejecting the null hypothesis. RESULTS: Twelve eyes from 12 patients with recurrent epithelium erosions were treated. The mean follow-up was two months. Significant pain reduction was observed (p<0.001). Corneal thickness and visual acuity measurements presented with no significant difference. CONCLUSION: The potential use of cross-linking in the treatment of bullous keratopathy pain was proved to be likely. A longer follow-up to confirm whether these results can be reproduced in the long term is necessary.

Tratamento aditivo do ceratocone por 'crosslinking' do colágeno após implante de anel de Ferrara / Addictive treatment of keratoconus with collagen crosslinking after Ferrara ring implant

OBJETIVO: Este trabalho tem como objetivo relatar experiência com utilização do crosslinking após implante de anel intracorneano de Ferrara (Ferrara Ophtalmic) visando a melhora refrativa e estabilização corneana. MÉTODOS: Seis pacientes com idade entre 26 e 38 anos foram submetidos ao tratamento com crosslinking após implante de anel de Ferrara. Cinco pacientes receberam 2 segmentos de anel e um paciente recebeu um segmento. Depois de 4 a 55 meses os pacientes foram submetidos a aplicação do "crosslinking" com ultra-violeta de acordo com o protocolo estabelecido por Seiler & cols. RESULTADOS: Quatro olhos apresentaram alteração progressiva da refração e 2 apresentaram refração sem alteração progressiva. A topografia mostrou queda acentuada da curvatura e o estudo da lâmpada de fenda mostrou anel em boa profundidade durante um ano de pós-operatório em 100 por cento dos olhos. A microscopia especular não mostrou alteração significativa e a acuidade visual se mostrou semelhante ao pré-operatório. CONCLUSÃO: O crosslinking poderá ajudar a manter ceratocones estáveis, não-somente nos casos de progressão, mas também nos cones evolutivos com implante de anel.

PURPOSE: To describe our experience with crosslinking after Ferrara ring implant for better vision and corneal stabilization. METHODS: six patients with age of 26 - 38 years old had treatment with crosslinking after Ferrara ring implant. Five patients had 2 ring segments implanted and one patient had one segment implanted. After 4 to 55 months the patients were submitted to crosslinking with UVA light according to Seiler et al protocol. RESULTS: Four eyes had progressive alteration of refraction and 2 patients had no alteration of refraction. The topography showed flattener curvature and at the slip lamp 100 percent of the eyes had good depth after one year post operatively. The specular microscopy didn't show any significant alteration and the visual acuity was similar before the procedure. CONCLUSION: The crosslinking may help to maintain stable keratoconus, not only in progression cases, but also in evolutive keratoconus with ring implant.

Avaliação do efeito citotóxico da terapia fotodinâmica associada ao LED e ao Photogem® sobre a mucosa bucal de rato / Toxicity of the photodynamics therapy with LED associated to Photogem®: an in vivo study

A utilização da PDT para tratamento de diferentes tipos de infecções, tal como a candidose bucal, tem sido estudada. Entretanto, poucos são os dados científicos que relatam os possíveis efeitos tóxicos dessa terapia. Dessa forma, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da irradiação na mucosa bucal de ratos com LED azul (de 460 nm e potência de 200 mW/cm2) em presença do fotossensibilizador (FS) Photogem®, em duas diferentes concentrações (500 mg/L e 1000 mg/L). Para isso, foram utilizados 101 ratos (Rattus Norvegicus Albinus Holtzman) distribuídos em 6 grupos, de acordo com os seguintes tratamentos: Grupo 1 ­ controle; Grupo 2 ­ aplicação do FS (500 mg/L); Grupo 3 ­ aplicação do FS (500 mg/L) e irradiação com LED; Grupo 4 - aplicação do FS (1000 mg/L); Grupo 5 ­ aplicação do FS (1000 mg/L) e irradiação com LED; e Grupo 6 ­ irradiação com LED. O FS foi aplicado por 30 minutos (tempo de pré-incubação) e o tempo de irradiação da mucosa foi de 20 minutos (dose de 144 J/cm2 ). Decorridos os 4 períodos de avaliação propostos (0 dia, 1dia, 3 dias e 7 dias), os animais tiveram a mucosa palatina fotografada para análise macroscópica, sendo então imediatamente sacrificados para remoção cirúrgica do palato e posterior análise em microscopia de luz e de fluorescência. Um mapeamento térmico foi realizado a fim de avaliar a variação de temperatura ocorrida no tecido durante a irradiação com LED. Macroscopicamente, em todos os grupos experimentais e para todos os períodos de avaliação propostos na presente pesquisa, observou-se que a mucosa apresentava-se intacta, com aspecto de normalidade semelhante ao do Grupo 1 (controle). Microscopicamente, alterações teciduais, caracterizadas especialmente por discreta inflamação, puderam ser observadas na mucosa palatina de apenas 4 de um total de 80 animais submetidos a PDT. A penetração do fotossensibilizador na mucosa tratada pôde ser observada por meio da emissão de fluorescência do Photogem® , tendo este FS se mantido presente apenas no tecido epitelial. O mapeamento térmico revelou que a temperatura aumentou de 35ºC para 41ºC durante 20 minutos de irradiação. Dentro das condições experimentais avaliadas, foi possível concluir que a PDT, utilizando Photogem® nas concentrações de 500 mg/L e 1000 mg/L associado ou não à irradiação com LED (dose de 144 J/cm2), não foi tóxica para a mucosa palatina de ratos

The use of PDT has been investigated for the treatment of different types of infection, like oral candidosis. There are, however, few research-based data that report the possible toxic effects of this therapy. Therefore, this study evaluated the effects of irradiating the palatal mucosa of rats with blue LED (460 nm; 200 mW/cm²) in the presence of the photosensitizer Photogem® at two concentrations (500 and 1000 mg/L). Then, 101 rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus Holtzman) were randomly distributed in six groups, according to the treatment performed on the palatal mucosa: Group 1: control; Group 2: Photogem® (500 mg/L); Group 3: Photogem® (500 mg/L) + blue LED; Group 4 - Photogem® (1000 mg/L); Group 5: (1000 mg/L) + blue LED; and Group 6: blue LED. The exposure times to the photosensitizing agent and to the light source were 30 min (pre-incubation time) and 20 min (144 J/cm2 energy density), respectively. At 0, 1, 3 and 7 days posttreatment, the animals had their palatal mucosa photographed for macroscopic analysis and were immediately sacrificed. The palate was removed for further analysis by light and fluorescence microscopy. Thermal mapping was made to evaluate the temperature change occurred in the tissue during LED irradiation. In all experimental groups and periods, the macroscopic analysis revealed intact mucosa with normal aspect similar to that of Group 1 (control). Tissue alterations, characterized primarily by a mild inflammation, were observed microscopically on the mucosa of only 4 out of 80 animals subjected to PDT. Photosensitizer penetration into the treated mucosa was identified by the fluorescence emitted by Photogem® and was limited to the epithelial layer. The thermal mapping revealed a temperature increase from 35 to 41ºC during the 20-min irradiation. In conclusion, under the tested conditions, PDT using Photogem® at 500 and 1000 mg/L concentrations associated or not to LED irradiation (144 J/cm2) was not toxic to the rat palatal mucosa

Reticulação do colágeno corneano com radiação ultravioleta e riboflavina para tratamento do ceratocone: resultados preliminares de um estudo brasileiro / Corneal collagen crosslinking with riboflavin and ultraviolet radiation for keratoconus treatment: preliminary results of a Brazilian study

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o efeito clínico e topográfico da reticulação do colágeno corneano (crosslinking) em pacientes com ceratocone pertencentes à população brasileira. MÉTODOS: Trinta e sete olhos de 37 pacientes (22 mulheres e 15 homens) com diagnóstico de ceratocone em progressão e com espessura mínima de 395 micra, foram submetidos à técnica de indução da reticulação do colágeno corneano através da aplicação durante 30 minutos de luz ultravioleta (370nm) associada à solução de riboflavina 0,1 por cento (instilada a cada 5 minutos). Foram comparados os valores ceratométricos e a melhor acuidade visual corrigida antes e após o procedimento, com intervalos de 40 e 90 dias. RESULTADOS: Houve redução do poder dióptrico médio (PDM) nos 3mm centrais em 83,8 por cento dos pacientes após três meses. O PDM reduziu em média 0,4D nos 3mm centrais (p<0,01) e 0,33D nos 5mm centrais (p<0,01). O valor ceratométrico máximo reduziu em média 0,6D (p<0,01). A acuidade visual corrigida do olho tratado evoluiu com melhora média de 6,27 letras (p<0,01) após 90 dias. CONCLUSÃO: Observamos uma melhora menos acentuada dos índices topográficos e de acuidade visual em comparação aos resultados encontrados em outras populações. São necessários mais estudos com um maior número de pacientes e maior tempo de seguimento para que esta técnica confirme seu propósito de estabilização da doença com apenas uma aplicação, e possa talvez se tornar, no futuro, o método de escolha para o tratamento do ceratocone.

PURPOSE: Assess the clinical and topographical effects of corneal collagen crosslinking in patients with keratoconus on Brazilian population. METHODS: Thirty seven eyes of 37 patients (22 female and 15 male) with diagnosis of progressive keratoconus and corneal paquimetry higher than 395 micra, were treated with riboflavin and ultraviolet A radiation, over 30 minutes, to induce corneal collagen crosslinking. Keratometric values were compared as well as the best corrected visual acuity, before and after the procedure, with ranges of 40 and 90 days. RESULTS: There was a reduction of mean dioptric power (PDM) in central 3mm in 83.8 percent of patients after three months.The PDM reduced 0.4D on average in central 3mm (p<0,01) and 0.33D in central 5mm (p<0,01). The maximum keratometric value decreased 0.6 D on average (p<0,01). The corrected visual acuity of the treated eye evolved with improvement average of 6,27 letters (p<0,01) after 90 days. CONCLUSION: We could observe a less pronounced improvement of the topographical values and visual acuity in comparison of the findings in other populations. Further studies with a larger number of patients and longer follow-up are necessary to confirm this technique's purpose of stabilizing the disease with only one application, and allow that to become the method of choice for keratoconus treatment.