Photodynamic therapy for bile duct cancer

Abstract

Photodynamic therapy is a method of treating tumors using the photodynamic reaction induced by light-sensitive substances and laser irradiation. Photodynamic therapy for bile duct cancer has shown some improvement in prognosis based on numerous studies. It has also demonstrated safety when used in combination with chemotherapy. Furthermore, prolonged stent patency periods have been indicated. While the guideline for bile duct cancer allows for the use of this treatment, there are no light-sensitive substances or laser probes approved for insurance coverage in Japan. As a result, it cannot be implemented in clinical practice. One of the typical side effects of light-sensitive substances is photosensitivity. However, the development of the second-generation Laserphyrin^® has received insurance approval for lung cancer, brain tumors, and esophageal cancer, with a reduced risk of photosensitivity due to shorter sunshade periods. Efforts are underway to obtain insurance approval for this drug for bile duct cancer, with a physician-led clinical trial starting in 2023. This article provides an overview of the current status, challenges, and prospects of photodynamic therapy for bile duct cancer.