Importance

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Abstract

A pharmaceutical composition, method and apparatus for treatment, diagnosis or both treatment and treatment of hyperproliferative malignant and non-malignant diseases of epithelial tissues is disclosed. The invention comprises local application of the pharmaceutical composition to a predetermined area of the tissue characterized by complete and consistent coverage of the tissue, including irregularly shaped tissue. The pharmaceutical composition consists of an active component, such as a photosensitizer or a precursor thereof, and at least one carrier substance including a viscous fluid, a gel, or a fluid that becomes viscous upon contact with the tissue. The gel's viscosity allows it to adhere to the tissue for a sufficient amount of time to transfer the photosensitizer or precursor. In a preferred embodiment the pharmaceutical composition is sprayed onto the surface of the diseased tissue. Optionally, a mechanical device is used to further restrict the composition to a specific areas and can also be used to press the composition onto the tissue. In another embodiment, components of the composition are delivered to and mixed at the treatment site by a suitable delivery device prior to irradiation. The active component is then activated by a suitable wavelength of radiation.

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First Claim