Advances in Photodynamic Therapy treatment methods hit the news headlines this week. 

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK.  In Gorlin Syndrome large numbers of patients present with multiple basal cell carcinomas (BCCs).  Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) has routinely been used for treatment but this can involve 3 - 6 hours in hospital waiting for the sensitizer cream to take effect prior to undergoing intensive light therapy.   With this new treatment the cream is applied in much the same way but a light-emitting Ambulight PDT is used.   With the Ambulight, patients only need to spend a short amount of time in hospital while the cream is applied, and can then carry on with their daily routine meaning a substantial reduction in the time spent in hospital.  The device, produced by Ambicare Health Ltd, has been piloted at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee and will now be rolled out to hospitals around the UK and abroad.   

About 50 people have so far been treated with it and scientists said feedback had been positive.  Further information can be accessed on the following websites, STV News and BBC News
Good new for Gorlin Syndrome patients!  It would be interesting to hear from patients with their experience of this treatment.