Early detection of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer with photodynamic diagnosis based on an advanced technology and a new imaging approach

Abstract

Bladder cancer has a high incidence worldwide. Its early diagnosis is crucial for the long-term course of the disease. Photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) in the bladder, also referred to as blue light cystoscopy (BLC), has been able to enhance cancer detection as an adjunct to white light cystoscopy (WLC). The aim of this paper is to update information on the technological advancements of a PDD medical device and the resulting benefits in terms of improvement of detection of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) in general and the aggressive carcinoma in situ (CIS) in particular.

Patient summary: An advanced device technology combined with a new imaging approach allows further enhanced bladder cancer detection at an early stage, which is assumed to further reduce recurrence and progression, and consequently minimize long-term treatment. A major benefit is the improvement in quality of life. 

Keywords: Photodynamic diagnosis, PDD, bladder cancer, carcinoma in situ, imaging technology