oral cancer treatment

New Therapies for Oral Cancer: Breakthroughs and Applications of Photodynamic Therapy and Immunotherapy

Published 2026-01-06 | By editor

This article focuses on two specialized therapies for oral cancer: Photodynamic Therapy and Immunotherapy.

What is Photodynamic Therapy?

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) involves using laser light of a specific wavelength combined with a photosensitizing agent to target cancer cells. First, the photosensitizing agent is injected intravenously into the patient. The agent travels through the bloodstream and accumulates in cancer cells. Subsequently, laser light is directed at the photosensitizer-laden cancer cells. The interaction between the photosensitizer, light, and oxygen generates reactive oxygen species that destroy the cancer cells.

How Does PDT Eliminate Oral Cancer?

Four days after intravenous injection of the photosensitizer, the patient undergoes laser irradiation. The laser light is delivered via a fiber-optic probe precisely targeting the cancer cells. The procedure lasts only a few minutes. For early-stage oral cancer, PDT can achieve a cure. For advanced or metastatic oral cancer, PDT may shrink tumors but is not curative.

Side Effects of PDT

The photosensitizer causes heightened light sensitivity. During treatment, patients must avoid sunlight, protect their skin and eyes by wearing long sleeves, pants, and sunglasses. Other side effects include pain, bleeding, and difficulty swallowing at the treatment site. Doctors may prescribe medications to alleviate these symptoms.

What is Immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy (Biologic Therapy or Biotherapy) leverages the body’s natural defenses to combat cancer cells. Two key agents used for oral and throat cancers are:

Monoclonal Antibodies

Cancer cells produce specific proteins that stimulate their growth and division. Monoclonal antibodies identify and bind to these proteins, blocking their activity and halting cancer progression. These antibodies can also enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, often used in combination with these treatments.

Cancer Growth Inhibitors

These agents disrupt chemical signaling between cancer cells, inhibiting their growth and division. For example, gefitinib (Iressa 5) is currently used for oral and throat cancers. Patients should consult their oncologists to determine eligibility.

Our ENT specialists at Hong Kong ENT Head & Neck Surgery Centre have extensive experience in treating ear, nose, throat, and head/neck conditions. For professional assistance in fighting oral cancer, please contact ENT Head and Neck Surgery Centre (Tel: 3100 0555)

Source:

HK ENT Specialist Ltd.

ENT Head and Neck Surgery Centre

For ENT Services, Audiology & Speech Therapy,

Sleep Disordered Breathing Management,

Hearing Aid Prescription & Medical Cosmetic Services

https://www.hkentspecialist.hk

Posted in ENT cancer, Head and Neck Surgery, Laryngology | Tagged Immunotherapy, oral cancer treatment, PDT, Photodynamic therapy

Oral Cancer and Throat Cancer: Treatment Options and Key Decision-Making

Published 2025-12-16 | By editor

What are the treatment methods for oral and throat cancers?

Surgery
Radiotherapy
Chemotherapy
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
Immunotherapy (Biological Therapies)

The choice of treatment depends on the cancer’s stage. For early-stage cancers, radiotherapy alone may suffice, but combined approaches (e.g., surgery with radiotherapy) are often used to remove cancerous cells and reduce recurrence.

How are oral and throat cancers staged?
Staging uses the TNM system (T, N, M) with numerical indicators (1–4):

T: Describes tumor size and local spread.
N: Indicates spread to nearby lymph nodes.
M: Reflects distant metastasis.
Stage 1: Small tumor, no spread.
Stages 2–3: Spread to adjacent tissues.
Stage 4: Metastasis to distant organs.
Lower numbers indicate less spread; higher numbers signify advanced disease.

What does the cancer stage signify?
Staging reflects tumor characteristics (size, microscopic features) and spread patterns, aiding doctors and patients in understanding disease progression and selecting optimal treatments.

How is the treatment method determined?
Treatments for oral/throat cancers may impact swallowing, breathing, and speech. Therefore, a multidisciplinary team—including ENT specialists, dentists, oncologists, radiologists, nurses, nutritionists, rehabilitation therapists, and speech therapists—collaborates to tailor a plan based on factors like age, overall health, tumor size, and metastasis.

What happens if I decline the recommended treatment?
Doctors respect patient autonomy and will not proceed without consent. Patients are encouraged to openly discuss concerns or reservations with their physician. Doctors will explain potential outcomes of refusing treatment and may suggest alternative options. Seeking a second opinion is advisable if it does not delay care.

How do I choose between multiple treatment options?
For example, surgery and radiotherapy may both be effective. Patients should compare the procedures, risks, and side effects of each option before deciding.

For questions about treatment, contact ENT Head and Neck Surgery Centre . Our ENT specialists have extensive experience in managing oral and throat cancers (Tel: 3100 0555).