Experimental tests in tissue phantoms of a photoirradiation system with optical dosimetry for photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy involves the administration of a photosensitizer drug followed by a local illumination with light of specific wavelength. In the presence of oxygen molecules, the light illumination of photosensitizer can activate the production of reactive oxygen species which produce the death of malignant cells. Light dose is an important factor for reach an effective therapy. In this work it is presented an irradiation system which allows the application of radiation at 630 nm for 5-AminoLevulinic Acid superficial Photodynamic Therapy using as a light source, a light emitting diode and an automatic control of output optical power using the results of a model of distribution of radiation in depth for different optical properties. The system was tested in tissue phantoms which allow a more controlled environment than test in vivo or in vitro.