Abstract: The present invention includes a composition for enhancing the antimicrobial efficacy of photodynamic disinfection against Gram-negative organism that is receptive to paraben potentiation using a composition comprising a photosensitizer and at least one paraben. The present invention also includes a method for photodynamic disinfection comprising applying the composition to a desired treatment area and applying light to the desired treatment area at a wavelength absorbed by the photosensitizer so as to inhibit Gram-negative organism located within the treatment area wherein the Gram-negative organism is receptive to paraben potentiation.

Abstract: A process of performing photodynamic therapy is provided along with a photosensitizer composition suitable for the process. The photosensitizer composition comprises at least one photoactive ingredient in a chemically reduced state. According to the process, the photosensitizer composition having at least one photoactive ingredient in a chemically reduced state is provided. The photosensitizer composition is applied to tissue or other substrate such that the at least one photoactive ingredient is at or travels to a location adjacent a target medium and the at least one photoactive ingredient is then altered to a photoactive state. The at least one photoactive ingredient is then exposed to light energy for assisting in inhibiting at least one pathogen at the target medium.

Abstract: The invention described here is an improved fiber optic probe. The tip of the probe is made from a transparent fill material that is connected to the end of a conventional optical fiber. The optical fiber is tapered, the fill material is connected thereto, and typically extends outwardly from the fiber as though it is a continuous part of the fiber. The outer diameter of the fill material is preferably essentially the same as the optical fiber. The fill material may contain light-scattering elements that disperse light as it exits the fiber.

Abstract: The invention described here is an improved fiber optic probe. The tip of the probe is made from a transparent fill material that is connected to the end of a conventional optical fiber. The optical fiber is tapered, the fill material is connected thereto, and typically extends outwardly from the fiber as though it is a continuous part of the fiber. The outer diameter of the fill material is preferably essentially the same as the optical fiber. The fill material may contain light-scattering elements that disperse light as it exits the fiber.