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Nearinfrared (NIR) dyes, small organic molecules that function in the NIR region, have received increasing attention in recent years as diagnostic and therapeutic agents in the field of tumor research. They have been demonstrated great successes in imaging and treating tumors both in vitro and in vivo. And their different applications in clinical practices have made rapid gains. This review primarily focuses on the progress of the application of NIR dyes in tumor imaging and therapy. In particular, advances in the use of different NIR dyes in tumorspecific imaging, photothermal, and photodynamic therapies are discussed. Limitations and prospects associated with NIR dyes in diagnostic and therapeutic application are also reviewed.