The journey of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) has been fascinating evolving from ancient phototherapy practices to cutting edge clinical applications. Its remarkable history spans over a century, originating in Germany and achieving a significant breakthrough in cancer treatment in 1975. In this innovative treatment we harness the power of light energy alongside a specialized photosensitizer such as ozone, vitamin C, curcumin, or riboflavin. The photosensitizer selectively accumulates within cancerous and precancerous cells. Depending on the specific treatment area, the photosensitizer can be administered intravenously, orally, or topically. When exposed to a specific wavelength of light, usually from a laser, the photosensitizer becomes activated. It then selectively targets cancer cells sparing healthy tissues. Upon activation, the photosensitizer generates reactive oxygen species which directly damage cancer cells. PDT disrupts tumor blood vessels, hindering their growth. Additionally, it triggers an immune response, encouraging the body’s defense mechanism to attack cancer cells even beyond the targeted area. PDT is truly a multifaceted approach to tackling caner.
PDT originally designed for targeted cancer treatment, has transcended its boundaries. Today it serves as a versatile tool in the medical arsenal, addressing a wide array of disorder and conditions including chronic pain management whether it be from injuries, inflammation or neurological conditions, post stroke rehabilitation, combats infections including fungal, bacteria or viral, mycotoxin illness and chronic EBV. PDT rejuvenates the skin treating conditions like psoriasis, rosacea, and sun damage.
Each light provides different properties for example RED light is our anti-inflammatory ally, it thins the blood, boost energy, and battles cancer. It is in anti-aging because it stimulates collagen production, reduces wrinkles and fine lines, promotes scar tissues repair, and reduces redness and acne. YELLOW light like a sun kissed morning hold transformative properties. Bathed in yellow, our mood lifts and the shadows of melancholy retreat. It nudges brains serotonin production, infusing us with a sense of calm and contentment. Like sunbeams on our skin, yellow light encourages our body’s vitamin D synthesis, bolsters our antioxidant defense against oxidative stress, yields antimicrobial properties and decreases inflammation. GREEN light contributes to overall blood health, enhances red blood cell function, ensuring better oxygen transport, reducing lactic acid and improving circulation. BLUE light stimulates the synthesis and releases of nitric oxide, it exhibits potent antimicrobial effects, reduces cytokines, and has a cooling effect. ULTRA VIOLET light has strong antimicrobial activity, enhances circulation and platelet aggregation which plays a crucial role in clot formation and wound healing. UV light directly aids in detoxification by enhancing liver function and supporting the breakdown of toxins. It activates enzymes involved in the detox pathways, contributing to overall metabolic health.
While various lights have distinct photosensitizers tailored to their wavelengths ozone uniquely responds to all colors of light. In other words, ozone acts a versatile photosensitizer that interacts with light across the spectrum. The combination of ozone and photodynamic therapy creates a dynamic synergy. When these two therapies work together, they create a powerful and effective treatment approach.
To find out more, call 702-258-7860 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Nicole Hujer at Renaissance Health Centre today.