[Photodynamic therapy with hematoporphyrin derivative for transitional-cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder--report of 30 cases].

Thirty patients with bladder carcinoma treated by photodynamic therapy (PDT) with hematoporphyrin derivative are presented. 24, 48 and/or 72 hours after intravenous injection of DHE 1.5-2.0 mg/kg or Y-HpD 5.0 mg/kg, the tumor was irradiated with 630 nm wavelength of argon dye laser via a quartz optic fibre inserted through the forceps channel of the cystoscope. Of the 30 patients treated, CR was obtained in 14 cases, PR in 13 cases and NR in 3 cases 1-3 months after therapy with a total effective rate of 90%. Among the 78 tumors found in the 30 cases, 52 were completely eradicated with a eradication rate of 66.7%. Photodynamic therapy is therefore useful in the treatment of transitional-cell carcinoma of the bladder. Yet, controlled trials are required to assess its place in the combined treatment of carcinoma of the bladder. Post PDT morphologic changes in the tumor, side effects, indication, advantages and disadvantages of this therapy are discussed.