PDT is a type of photochemotherapy which uses the phototoxic effect of photosensitising drugs on cancer cells. The photosensitising drug makes cells more sensitive to light and is attracted to the cancer cells. It does not become active until it is exposed to a particular type of light, usually a high-intensity laser light of a very specific wavelength. The drug is activated when this light is directed at the area of the cancer, usually by means of a flexible optical fibre or a special lamp. The energy in the light activates the drug, which destroys the cancer cells by combining with oxygen to form a short-lasting substance that is toxic to the cells. 

All our lasers are suitable for PDT when used with a long diffusing fibre tip to apply laser light evenly over a wide area. Excel Lasers is a UK distributor for Medlight’s range of specialist diffuser fibres which can be used in a number of PDT applications and with lasers of various wavelengths. We currently support the most popular wavelengths of 630, 635, 652 and 670 nm, which are used with photosentitiser drugs such as Photofrin, ALA and Foscan. Applications include lung cancer, oesophageal cancer, head and neck cancers.