ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The purpose of this manuscript is to give a cost-effectiveness analysis of the photodynamic therapy by means of Foscan (Foscan-PDT) in Germany. The basis for this paper is provided by a study performed in Great Britain which analyses the costs of Foscan-PDT compared to the costs of palliative chemotherapy and to the option of no treatment in patients with advanced head and neck cancer. METHOD: In order to calculate the cost-effectiveness, an already published model developed on the base of English data was fed with German cost-data. For consideration of the different characteristics of cost-parameters as well as to minimize the over- or underestimation of the costs, sensitivity analyses were performed. RESULTS: The Foscan-PDT revealed the highest health-related effectiveness compared to all other above-mentioned options -- 129 additional days of life in comparison to no treatment or 48 days in comparison to four cycles of palliative chemotherapy. The costs per therapy of Foscan-PDT ( 8,761 euros) were lower than those of four cycles of palliative chemotherapy (11,600 euros). CONCLUSION: Foscan-PDT is a cost-effective treatment option for patients suffering from advanced head and neck cancer. For patients who up to now had only very limited treatment possibilities at their disposition, Foscan-PDT offers a chance for reduction of the tumor, remission, and a prolonged expectancy of life.
