Janus, the ancient Roman god depicted with two faces is an appropriate metaphor for light therapy. In the right photodynamic therapy conditions, light is able to kill nearly anything that is living such as cancers, microorganisms, parasites, and more. On the opposite face, light of the correct wavelength and proper dose (photobiomodulation) can heal, regenerate, protect, revitalize and restore any kind of dead, damaged, stressed, dying, degenerating cells, tissue, or organ system. This book discusses both sides of Janus' face in regards to light therapy.

Janus, the ancient Roman god depicted with two faces is an appropriate metaphor for light therapy. In the right photodynamic therapy conditions, light is able to kill nearly anything that is living such as cancers, microorganisms, parasites, and more. On the opposite face, light of the correct wavelength and proper dose (photobiomodulation) can heal, regenerate, protect, revitalize and restore any kind of dead, damaged, stressed, dying, degenerating cells, tissue, or organ system. This book discusses both sides of Janus' face in regards to light therapy.

Photomedicine is one of the most inspiring and interdisciplinary fields in medicine that involves the research and application of photobiology with respect to health and disease. Photomedicine has contributed to the clinical practice of a variety of medical fields, including dermatology, surgery, radiology, diagnostics, cardiology, and anticancer therapy. Furthermore, expansion of its scope and contribution can be expected. This book covers a wide range of aspects and issues related to photomedicine, which brings together researchers from many countries. These include the basic science of photodynamic therapy, clinical applications in various kinds of medical fields, photochemotherapy, laser therapy for musculoskeletal pain, intense pulsed light therapy for photorejuvenation, biological function of low-level laser therapy, and photobiology for skin rejuvenation. Not only will this be beneficial for readers, but it will also contribute to scientists making further breakthroughs in photomedicine.

"Low-level laser therapy (or photobiomodulation therapy) is a rapidly growing approach to treating a wide range of diseases and disorders that afflict humanity. This Tutorial Text covers the basic molecular and cellular mechanisms of action, applications for treating diseases in animal models, and its use in clinical trials and therapeutic practice in patients. Other topics include the two basic chromophores and how they trigger the signaling pathways, activation of transcription factors, and mobilization of stem cells; how the light-source design and the relevant energy parameters can affect the outcome of therapy; and the physics and tissue-optics principles that concern LLLT"--