Photomedicine in Gynecology and Reproduction

The photodynamic technique involves the administration of a photosensitizer followed by application of laser light. When light interacts intracellularly with the photosensitizer, the photon energy absorbed by the sensitizing molecule mainly generates photooxidation for tissue destruction or fluorescence for diagnostics. Photomedical techniques provide a minimally invasive, ambulatory procedure in gynecology, not needing anesthetics.
A history of photomedicine explains the main elements and mechanisms of photomedical techniques. One of the main chapters is dedicated to the biochemical and biophysical aspects of photomedicine such as characterization of photosensitizers, their interaction with light, their destruction, the optical dosimetry and optical properties of tissues. The clinical part of this book summarizes the state-of-the-art activity in all major gynecologic applications, from cervix to breast, and provides the reader with an understanding of photodynamic therapy and basic mechanisms. Photon-assisted reproduction, e.g. laser-assisted fertilization, embryo hatching and prenatal diagnosis, makes up the final chapters. Belonging in every hospital or university library, this book underscores why photomedicine appeals to such a broad spectrum of students, basic scientists, clinicians, and members of the corporate world.