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30/10/2006
'Sticking plaster' hope for skin cancer
A new light-emitting 'sticking plaster' to be used in the treatment of skin cancer, has been developed by Scottish scientists.
Researchers at the University of St Andrews and Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, developed the new device, which builds on established photodynamic therapy treatment methods.
Scientists said that the device not only reduces pain, but can also potentially be used by patients in their own home.
The device is a portable lightweight source which is powered by a pocket-sized battery, so that patients should be able to go about their daily business while receiving treatment. The light is generated by an organic light-emitting diode.
The device was developed by a team headed by St Andrews' physicist Professor Ifor Samuel and dermatology consultant Professor James Ferguson, head of the photobiology unit at Ninewells Hospital.
Professor Samuel said: "By adapting the latest technology to an existing treatment method, we have developed a compact light source for treating common skin cancers. It can be worn by the patient in a similar way to a sticking plaster, while the battery is carried like an iPod."
Professor Ferguson said: "This new device will have a major impact on the treatment of skin cancers. The light-emitting patch is a low-cost, portable and convenient method of treatment. Our initial pilot trials have already shown its effectiveness and we find patients requesting this treatment over conventional methods."
Scientists said that the new approach is much more convenient and comfortable than conventional methods as lower light levels are used, which reduces pain, and the patient can move around during treatment. The introduction of this product will mean that more patients can be treated, and opens up the possibility of treatment at GPs surgeries or at home.
Skin cancer is a major problem in the UK and is growing. It is estimated that around 10% of Scotland's population of half-a-million people will suffer from the disease at some point in their lifetimes.
Researchers also believe that the treatment could be used in the cosmetic industry, for anti-aging treatments or for conditions such as acne.
(KMcA)
Researchers at the University of St Andrews and Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, developed the new device, which builds on established photodynamic therapy treatment methods.
Scientists said that the device not only reduces pain, but can also potentially be used by patients in their own home.
The device is a portable lightweight source which is powered by a pocket-sized battery, so that patients should be able to go about their daily business while receiving treatment. The light is generated by an organic light-emitting diode.
The device was developed by a team headed by St Andrews' physicist Professor Ifor Samuel and dermatology consultant Professor James Ferguson, head of the photobiology unit at Ninewells Hospital.
Professor Samuel said: "By adapting the latest technology to an existing treatment method, we have developed a compact light source for treating common skin cancers. It can be worn by the patient in a similar way to a sticking plaster, while the battery is carried like an iPod."
Professor Ferguson said: "This new device will have a major impact on the treatment of skin cancers. The light-emitting patch is a low-cost, portable and convenient method of treatment. Our initial pilot trials have already shown its effectiveness and we find patients requesting this treatment over conventional methods."
Scientists said that the new approach is much more convenient and comfortable than conventional methods as lower light levels are used, which reduces pain, and the patient can move around during treatment. The introduction of this product will mean that more patients can be treated, and opens up the possibility of treatment at GPs surgeries or at home.
Skin cancer is a major problem in the UK and is growing. It is estimated that around 10% of Scotland's population of half-a-million people will suffer from the disease at some point in their lifetimes.
Researchers also believe that the treatment could be used in the cosmetic industry, for anti-aging treatments or for conditions such as acne.
(KMcA)
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