Photodynamic Therapy for the Treatment of Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Photodisinfection for the Treatment of Chronic Rhinosinusitis

The purpose of this study is to determine whether the use of light and a topically applied photosensitizer can relieve symptoms and clinically improve patients with chronic rhinosinusitis.

This clinical trial will be a prospective, randomized, single-center study utilizing two treatment assignments and a control group. The study is expected to enroll a total of 48 subjects. The intent of the study is to evaluate a single versus double treatment of photodisinfection in men and women suffering from chronic persistent rhinosinusitis with and without nasal polyposis. Each photodisinfection treatment group will be compared to a control group receiving saline irrigation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• history of chronic rhinosinusitis with and without nasal polyposis
• no antibiotics within 4 weeks
• no oral steroid use within 4 weeks
• no topical steroid use within 2 weeks
• endoscopic sinus surgery greater than 6 months previously

Exclusion Criteria:

• acute respiratory infection within last 2 weeks
• septal deviation restricting sinus access
• known allergy to methylene blue
• pregnant or breast feeding