Light therapy shows promise in tough mesothelioma trial

NCT ID NCT02662504

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tested whether adding intrapleural photodynamic therapy (PDT) to standard surgery and chemotherapy is safe and feasible for patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma. Six participants received a light-sensitive drug followed by laser light inside the chest cavity during surgery. The goal was to see if patients could complete the full treatment without severe side effects. Results will help decide if a larger trial comparing PDT to standard care is warranted.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
porfimer sodium (Photofrin) with laser light
What this could lead to
If successful, this could lead to a larger trial testing whether adding photodynamic therapy to standard surgery and chemotherapy improves survival for mesothelioma patients.
What could go wrong
This is a very small pilot study (6 participants) focused on feasibility and safety, not effectiveness. The treatment is complex and carries risks from surgery, chemotherapy, and light sensitivity. Results may not apply to all mesothelioma types.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • CHRU de Lille Hôpital Calmette

    Lille, France

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