Plaster-like device sheds light on skin cancer

Scientists have unveiled a sticking plaster-type device which can be used to treat skin cancer.
By The Newsroom
Published 12th Mar 2010, 20:04 BST
Updated 12th Mar 2010, 20:04 BST

The light-emitting Ambulight PDT can be worn as patients move around, reducing the amount of time they need to spend in hospitals.

It also aims to make treatment more comfortable and avoids scarring. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK, with rates doubling every eight to 10 years.

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In the new treatment, a special cream is applied to the skin and the 5cm wide device, which comes with a power source about the size of an iPod, is stuck on top.

About three hours later, the light is switched on for about another three hours, causing a photochemical reaction that works to kill the cancer, a process called photodynamic therapy (PDT).

Previously, the special light equipment was based in hospitals, meaning that patients had to spend hours there for treatment. After waiting the three hours for the cream to take effect, they then received 20 minutes of more intense light therapy.

With the Ambulight, patients only need to spend shorter amounts of time in hospital while the cream is applied, and they can then carry on with their daily routines.