Clinical study of Photofrin photodynamic therapy for the treatment of relapse nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Summary 

Objectives

To evaluate the clinical response and adverse effects of Photofrin photodynamic therapy (PDT) in patients with relapse nasal pharyngeal cancer.

Methods

Thirty patients with relapse nasal pharyngeal cancer were randomly divided into PDT group and chemotherapy group. In PDT group, patients received intravenous administration of Photofrin (2mg/kg b.w.) and 48h later light (200–300J/cm) was delivered by a 630nm diode laser through a cylinder diffuser under endoscopic assistance. Two days after PDT the necrotic tissues were removed and newly identified sites were subject to another round of light irradiation. In chemotherapy group, the routine cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (DDP/5-FU) remedy was used. Endoscopic and radiological examinations were performed during 6 months follow-up. The Karnofsy Score was used to evaluate the quality of life.

Results

The local response and nasal cavity obstruction remission rate in PDT group were better than that in chemotherapy group. The Karnofsy Score was also improved in PDT group.

Conclusion

This pilot study suggests that Photofrin PDT is effective and safe in treatment of advanced nasal pharyngeal cancer and management of nasal obstruction.

Keywords: Nasal pharyngeal cancer, Nasal obstruction, Photofrin, Photodynamic therapy, Chemotherapy