Visualization of dose parameters and efficacy prediction in vascular-targeted photodynamic therapy based on a hyperspectral imaging system

Vascular-targeted photodynamic therapy (V-PDT) is a promising treatment for benign vascular proliferative disorders. However, its efficacy largely depends on clinicians’ experience due to the lack of reliable methods for efficacy prediction. To provide an objective prediction approach, a hyperspectral imaging (HSI) system was developed to achieve real-time, non-invasive visualization of V-PDT dose parameters, including photosensitizer distribution, oxygen concentration, and vasoconstriction. Based on these measurements, we proposed a photodynamic therapy efficacy prediction index (PEPI)—a new metric that integrates the dynamic changes of both photosensitizer and oxygen throughout the treatment process, thereby providing critical insights for optimizing treatment protocols. Experimental results obtained in vivo using a dorsal skinfold window model demonstrate that the system accurately detects V-PDT dose parameters, and the proposed efficacy prediction parameters exhibit a strong positive correlation with treatment outcomes. This work highlights the potential of hyperspectral imaging to advance V-PDT toward more precise, individualized, and effective clinical applications, paving the way for its broader adoption in the field of precision medicine.