PhotoCure and GE Healthcare introduce Hexvix in Europe

Hexvix, which is developed for the detection of bladder cancer, is based on photodynamic technology that combines a photosensitiser drug with a light source that activates the photosensitiser.

The pharmaceutical product is approved in Europe for the diagnosis of bladder cancer, and GE Healthcare is in the process of transferring the regulatory approvals and securing pricing and reimbursement. The company plans to launch Hexvix throughout Europe in 2006.

Bladder cancer is the third most common malignant disease worldwide, with approximately four million cystoscopies performed in the US and Europe every year. Patients have a good prognosis if diagnosed early and treated adequately. Optical imaging with Hexvix is an innovative and effective diagnostic method that can be used for all types of bladder cancer, and is intended for use as a supplement to current standard methods.

Noway-based PhotoCure says the product is particularly effective for detection of carcinoma in situ (CIS), a highly malignant cancer that is difficult to see with standard white light cystoscopy. Hexvix gives a more accurate diagnosis than current standard methods, the company claims, and has shown to provide health economic benefits in bladder cancer treatment.

PhotoCure is currently testing Hexvix for new indications and aims to develop a pipeline of follow-on products and technologies.