Laser-induced fluorescence diagnosis of stomach tumor

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the capabilities of laser spectral and video fluorescence diagnosis used for stomach tumors using 5-ALA photosensitizer. The spectroscopic method is presented with an example of a characteristic fluorescence spectrum from stomach with 5-ALA and quantitative statistics. The laser excitation wavelength was 632.8 nm. The analysis of the video system is presented with clinical statistics. The penetration depth of 3–4 mm of the He–Ne laser during the spectroscopic study allowed for scanning the mucous and submucous layers of the stomach and for detecting tumorous growths in these layers. Registration of fluorescence using the spectral system enabled surgeons to conduct express estimation of dubious stomach tissues, to make biopsy from doubtful areas to reveal precancer and early cancer states. The video fluorescence analysis with the application of 5-ALA-induced PPIX may be recommended for the use as an express method of diagnosis including early diagnosis of malignant stomach diseases as well as for intraoperative assessment of tumor extension and detection of canceromatous foci during laparoscopy. The optimal time interval for the diagnosis (regardless of the nature of the study – endoscopic, laparoscopic, or intraoperative) is 2–4 h from the administration of photosensitizer. The optimal dose of the photosensitizer is 20 mg per 1 kg of the body weight.