This trial is running in several UK centres as we write this. It had reached Phase 3 – a randomised trial where the purpose is to confirm the effects of PDT with the Photofrin drug. In Phase 3, half the patients are treated with the drug and light combination, and the other half receive a placebo (fake) drug (and light).

This sort of control trial is vital in proving that it isn’t the light alone that is having the effect of managing and controlling the growth and spread of the cancer.

Those patients who, in the trial, are treated first with the placebo drug can, usually after the tests of the results of light alone, be treated with the drug and light.

It is impossible at this stage to publish any meaningful data as to the results and benefits of this treatment. What can be stated is that in some cases patients have outlived the length of the trial, making it difficult to calculate an average survival time.

The PDT could be repeated as often as might be required to ‘manage and control’ the growth of a tumour.

It should be noted that trials are taking part in France and the UK to monitor the impact of the patient receiving a 2nd drug following treatment that is proving highly effective in reducing the period of all-body light sensitivity that can be several weeks in the case of Photofrin treatments

The bile duct trial is being conducted jointly in the UK and North America.

Getting treaded:

If you know of someone who wishes to be considered for PDT for bile duct cancer treatment, please contact your nearest centres via your GP. University College Hospital London, Queen’s Medical Centre Nottingham, University Hospital Aintree, Ninewells Hospital Dundee, Frenchay Hospital in Bristol, The Royal Hampshire in Winchester, The Royal London in London, Basingstoke & North Hants and North Manchester General.