Photocure is testing photodynamic therapy (PDT) for local treatment of cervical dysplasia and human papilloma virus (HPV) infection.

Photocure PDT has the advantage of using substances (photosensitiser precursors):
- that are tumour selective
- destroy only cervical dysplasia
- preserve normal tissue
- leave the organ function intact
- have only minor local side effects
- is repeatable

The treatment includes local administration of a cream or gel to the cervix followed by illumination through a light catheter (see fig. 1).


Fig. 1
Courtesy of Prof. Hillemanns, Hannover and Biolitec AG, Jena                                  

Preliminary results show that Photocure PDT can be effectively applied in treatment of cervical dysplasia with only minor side effects. The treatment may also be affective against HPV infection itself for which there is no treatment available. To learn more about the efficacy and safety of PDT of cervical dysplasia, Photocure has started a new clinical study in Europe including Oslo (Ullevål University Hospital), of women who are refered for surgical treatment (conisation) of the cervix.