Site Updated 22/06/2006

Topical PDT using the methyl ester of 5-ALA, MAL (Metvix), has been licensed in several countries, including the UK, for use for certain skin cancers (non-hyperkeratotic actinic keratoses on the face and neck, and superficial and nodular basal cell carcinomas, unsuitable for conventional therapies). A patient information leaflet written by the Falkirk unit is attached below. (Please note this may differ slightly from information leaflets accompanying the product and patients/doctors are advised to read both leaflets). MAL-PDT PIL.

In the UK, topical 5-ALA remains available on a named patient basis for ‘off-label’ use in conditions where topical PDT has been shown to be of benefit. A patient information leaflet is attached that has been used in Forth Valley. This is to give some background to the treatment and can be adapted by other centres depending on what is to be treated and how the local PDT service has been organised. ALA-PDT PIL

A third preparation, Levulan, (DUSA, USA) is a special formulation of 5-ALA, licensed in the USA for non-hyperkeratotic actinic keratoses on the face and neck, but NOT currently available in Europe. No information sheet currently provided.

Disclaimer: The Forth Valley unit does not seek to endorse individual products. As a service to units interested in PDT, information sheets have been provided, but patients must be aware that their treatment may differ from that described and are urged to ensure they have received a leaflet relevant to their treatment at their local unit.

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