1818 – Expansion of specialist supervision criteria for MBS and PBS items for integrated, closed-system, extracorporeal photopheresis and methoxsalen (UVADEX®) for the treatment of Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (CTCL) and chronic Graft Versus Host Disease (cGVHD)

Change to an existing Medicare Benefits Schedule item.

Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is a type of treatment that involves attaching a patient to a machine that removes some of their blood. The machine separates the white blood cells, red blood cells and plasma. The white blood cells are mixed with a drug called methoxsalen, exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, and then all blood products are put back into the patient. ECP may be a treatment to activate the patient’s immune system to fight the cancer.

Type: Therapeutic 

Cutaneous T‑cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a rare type of cancer that affects T‑cells, which are a type of white blood cell. People with CTCL may get raised rashes, itchy patches of skin, lumps, or open sores. CTCL can last a long time and can be difficult to treat. Many people feel constant itching, pain, and discomfort, and their skin may look different, which can make everyday life difficult. Over time, the disease can spread to the lymph nodes, blood, or other organs, which can cause more serious health problems.

Chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD) is a serious illness that can happen after a bone marrow or stem cell transplant from a donor. cGVHD can affect different parts of the body, such as the skin, liver, eyes, mouth, lungs, and stomach and bowels. Symptoms can include a skin rash, hard or tight skin, problems with the liver, dry eyes and mouth, trouble swallowing, diarrhoea, and breathing problems. These symptoms can make everyday life difficult, and, in some cases, the illness can be life threatening.

The following consultation deadlines apply:

• Pre-PASC consultation deadline: Bypassing PASC
• Pre-MSAC consultation deadline: Friday 12 June 2026 11:59pm AEST

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This application will be considered at the following meetings:

• PASC meeting: Bypassing PASC
• ESC meeting: Bypassing ESC
• MSAC meeting: 30 to 31 July 2026

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The outcome of this application is pending.

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