Imagine that you or someone you know is about to undergo brain surgery. And the surgeons want to remove the abnormal tissue as accurately as possible, right? Today we are talking about a special solution that comes to the rescue in such a situation, but with a slightly different approach. This is more like a "magic" that shows the surgeon the way than a medicine that cures a disease.
What is Aminolevulinic Acid?
Simply put, this is more of an aid than a medicine, helping the surgeon pinpoint the exact location of abnormal cells. The brand name for this is `Gleolan`.
This works in a very interesting way. When you drink this solution a few hours before surgery, it goes inside and attaches itself to some of the abnormal cells in your body (especially brain cancer cells). Then, in the operating room, when the surgeon shines a special blue light on the cells, they start to glow pink. It's like they've been marked with a highlighter pen . This makes it easier for the surgeon to identify these cells and remove them as completely as possible without damaging healthy tissue.
That means that rather than curing the disease, this is something that helps to precisely identify and remove the diseased parts.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this
Before giving you this solution, your medical team will need to know your complete health history. It is especially important to tell them if you have any of the following conditions:
| Your situation | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| Porphyria condition | This is a rare condition. Problems can occur with this solution. |
| Skin sensitivity to light or other skin diseases | This solution makes the skin extremely sensitive to light, which can worsen an existing condition. |
| Allergies | Be sure to tell us if you are allergic to this solution, compounds called porphyrins, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives. |
| Being pregnant or trying to get pregnant | Since there is still no complete data on the possible effects on the fetus, it is essential to inform the doctor about this. |
| Breastfeeding the baby | It is important to seek medical advice as it has not been confirmed whether this solution passes into breast milk. |
How do you use this solution?
This is not a medicine you can take home.
- This is a solution that a medical team gives you to drink in a hospital or clinic .
- This is usually given to you between 2 and 4 hours before surgery.
- Special care may be required when giving this to young children.
What if the dosage of the medicine increases?
This is given in a hospital setting so the chances of this happening are very low. However, if you think something has happened to you, you should immediately report it to the National Poisons Information Centre at the National Hospital or the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) at the hospital.
Other medications that may interact with this (Drug Interactions)
It is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies). Some medications can affect the way this solution works. Be especially careful with medications that make your skin sensitive to light.
| Drug category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Some diuretics | chlorothiazide , hydrochlorothiazide , indapamide , metolazone |
| Some diabetes medications | glipizide , glyburide |
| Some antibiotics | sulfamethoxazole , tetracyclines |
| Phenothiazines | chlorpromazine , prochlorperazine , thioridazine |
| Other | St. John's wort, vitamin A and related drugs, vitamin E |
The most important thing to take care of after taking this solution is
This is the most important thing . After taking this solution, your skin becomes very photosensitive. This means that your skin and eyes may react not only to sunlight, but also to bright lights in your home.
- You should completely avoid direct sunlight exposure for at least 48 hours .
- Even indoors, avoid direct sunlight (spotlights, reading lamps) on your body. Keep the room lighting dimmed.
- If you must go outside, wear sunglasses, a hat, and clothing that covers your body completely .
- It's good to use sunscreen, but it's not enough. It's also essential to cover yourself with clothing.
- Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds for any reason.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause some side effects, although not everyone gets them.
| Things to report to your medical team immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Usually does not require medical treatment (but tell your doctor if it persists) | |
| Other side effects |
|
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Aminolevulinic acid is not a medicine that cures a disease, but a special solution that helps the surgeon identify abnormal cells during surgery.
- You drink this a few hours before surgery, in the hospital. You won't be allowed to take it home.
- Tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have (especially porphyria) and all medications you take.
- Important: Your skin and eyes will be very sensitive to light after taking this solution, so be sure to avoid bright light and sunlight for at least 48 hours .
- If you experience any allergic symptoms (skin rash, swelling), notify the medical team immediately.
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