Learning Objectives
➤ Explain what photodynamic therapy is.
➤ Identify the different types of clinical trials.
➤ Describe how to care for skin & nails during treatment
2.8.1 Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy is a breast cancer treatment method that uses light to target a local area (Ostańska et al., 2021). This treatment has recently become a more accepted form of alternative cancer treatment.
Photodynamic therapy involves three components: photosensitizers, light, and oxygen (Ostańska et al., 2021). It works by applying photosensitizers and dissolved oxygen to the tumour. When light shines onto the tumour, a reaction occurs; the product of this reaction then reacts to the oxygen and destroys the tumour.
2.8.2 Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are experimental studies that attempt to improve current breast cancer treatments or create new ones (CBCN, 2022). Clinical trials focus on how a specific treatment affects a specific population rather than just one individual.
There are various types of clinical trials, including:
- Placebo-controlled — half of the participants will receive the new treatment, and the other half will receive a similar-looking placebo (a fake version).
- Comparative — two or more treatments are compared based on how effective and safe they are for participants with similar diseases (e.g., early-stage cancer).
- Randomized — participants receive a randomized treatment to provide equal treatment distribution and avoid bias.
- Double-blind — neither the participant nor the researcher knows which treatment the participant received. (CBCN, 2022)
Since each clinical trial is unique, make sure you know the following information:
- What kind of trial is it?
- What are the risks and benefits?
- How much money and time does it require? (Canadian Cancer Society, n.d.j)
If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial, check out the following resources.
Cancer Information Helpline – 1-888-939-333 (Canadian Cancer Society, n.d.j)
Canadian Cancer Trials (Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, n.d.)
2.8.3 Skin & Nail Care
Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other breast cancer treatment can affect the health of your skin and nails (Cancer Treatment Centers of America, 2020).
Recommended methods for keeping your skin and nails as healthy as possible include:
- Washing your hands with lukewarm (not hot) water with unscented soap.
- Avoiding any scented products (e.g., perfume-scented lotions).
- Protecting your skin from UV rays using sunscreen, sun hats, and parasols.
- Wearing clothes that are loose and not irritating.
- Keeping your nails trimmed and clean
- Using protective gloves while gardening or cleaning your house.
- Soaking your nails in olive or vegetable oil if they are brittle.
- Moisturizing your skin consistently. (Cancer Treatment Centers of America, 2020)
