Chetna Patnaik, Sulagna Rath, Abhijit De
Experimental cancer therapeutics are rapidly advancing, with novel approaches emerging to reduce global cancer burden. This review focuses on challenges hindering the clinical integration of photothermal therapy (PTT), despite its therapeutic potential. Key PTT considerations include photothermal agent (PTA), laser properties and strategies for better application, efficacy and precision. Common parameters for PTA evaluation demonstrate biocompatibility, biodistribution and efficacy assessments. However, for clinical emphasis, targeting efficiency and post-therapy fate determination of PTA, sophisticated engineering of photonic devices, precision assessments as well as pain mitigation are critical. Directed future endeavours, keeping these insights, may facilitate application of PTT as a viable cancer treatment in clinical settings. Despite its therapeutic potential, key challenges continue to hinder the clinical integration of photothermal therapy. Here, the authors review key considerations for clinical integration and recommend directions for future endeavors.