A SCOTTISH firm has invested $1 million (£780,000) into trials which could give millions fighting with stubborn skin lesions across the globe access to effective treatment.
Stirling-based Emblation is conducting clinical trials in the US and Germany, which if successful could see its Swift device gain widespread use in the treatment of Actinic Keratoses (AK), a common condition which in some cases can develop into skin cancer.
The Swift technology has already been used in an estimated 300,000 skin lesion treatments, but the technology is currently only allowed to be marketed for general dermatology use.
Dr Matt Kidd, director of research and development at Emblation, said: “Actinic Keratoses is a common condition which affects millions of people globally and unfortunately in some cases can lead to more sinister outcomes.
“Our Swift method of dealing with this condition is non-invasive, has little to no side effects, and, unlike other solutions, is non-ablative.
“The outcome of this clinical trial will be an important step forward in establishing Swift as a safe, easily accessible route to dealing with AK and securing peace of mind for those afflicted by these irritating lesions.
“The American and European health care sectors are key to our future growth and we will continue to work with the regulatory authorities to provide the research and evidence which will secure the necessary clearance for the wider use of Swift.”
AK typically develops on areas of the body often exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, arms, ears and scalp. The lesions are usually up to 2cm in size and can feel dry, rough, scaly or itchy. The most common methods of treating AK include cryotherapy (freezing), photo dynamic therapy (light), or medicated creams and gels.
Kidd continued: “An initial clinical trial carried out in Dundee saw excellent results in the treatment of AK in 11 patients.
“We are confident that these clinical trials will wield similar, successful results using our patented Swift system to target this troublesome lesion.”
The firm was founded by Gary Beale and Eamon McErlean, who met during post-graduate studies at Heriot Watt University. The pair went on to launch Swift in 2016, as a "radical new treatment" in the podiatry sector.
