Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses lasers and a chemical absorbed by the body. The chemical (called hematoporphyrin) is given by an injection into your vein and is absorbed by the cancer cells. An infrared light source is then aimed at the cancer, and the cells that have absorbed the chemical undergo a reaction and start to die.

Photodynamic therapy is often used to decrease symptoms, rather than cure cancer. It may help control bleeding or breathing problems. This technique can be very effective, but it is not considered a standard option like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. Photodynamic therapy is only offered at some medical centers around the country and is best used when there is not much cancer to be killed; the chemical is absorbed less than ¼ inch into the tumor, so a big tumor will not be affected by this method.

Photodynamic therapy will make your skin and eyes more sensitive than normal to light for at least six weeks. Avoid the sun. If you must go outside, wear sunglasses and protective clothing. When indoors, avoid bright indoor lighting.

When a tumor extends into a bronchus, radiation therapy may be delivered directly to the tumor by means of brachytherapy. In this situation, a small tube is inserted down the bronchus, and a radioactive source is placed near the tumor site. This procedure can be used to deliver higher doses to a small area and is also useful in helping to control bleeding from a tumor that has grown into a bronchus.