Advances in Second Near-Infrared Window Photothermal Agents and Photothermal Therapy for Tumors in Interdisciplinary Medical Research.

Cancer continues to pose a significant threat to human health. While early diagnosis has improved survival rates for many cancer patients, a substantial number still do not achieve the desired treatment outcomes. Therefore, it is imperative to develop novel therapeutic approaches for tumor management. Second near-infrared window photothermal therapy has garnered considerable attention from researchers due to its effective tumor-killing capabilities and minimal side effects. This review commences by summarizing the advancements in second near-infrared photothermal agents, alongside an evaluation of the advantages and disadvantages of various photothermal agents. Subsequently, we highlight the benefits of combining photothermal therapy with other treatment modalities. Finally, we present a compilation of reports detailing the application of photothermal therapy in the treatment of various tumor types in clinical settings. In the conclusion, we underscore the challenges and potential research directions associated with photothermal therapy. Our article aims to facilitate interdisciplinary research in the fields of nanomedicine and clinical medicine.