Breakthrough Immunotherapy Reaches First Patient at Velindre

Velindre Cancer Service has treated our first patient with Tebentafusp – a novel type of immunotherapy known as a T-cell engager.

2025 has seen the NICE approval of a new immunotherapy called Tebentafusp to treat Uveal Melanoma – a type of eye cancer.

To be eligible for this treatment, patients need specific test on tumour to see if they test positive for the human leukocyte antigen protein called HLA 02:01. This is typically 50% of patients.

The first patient to have a full course of Tebentafusp at Velindre said:

“I could not have had better care and attention and want to thank you, your team and everybody involved in making it possible.”

“Dr Frazer pulled out all the stops to get it all set up”

“Velindre have the happiest staff I’ve ever seen in a hospital”

“I am very privileged to have been the first patient at Velindre to receive Tebentafusp and hope this paves the way for successful outcomes for future patients.”

Ricky Frazer, Clinical Lead for Advanced and Complex Therapies, Skin Cancer, and the Immunotherapy Toxicity Team, said:

"This novel immunotherapy represents a significant step forward for our patients. As the field of immunotherapy continues to advance, its introduction at Velindre Cancer Services will help pave the way for wider access to similar innovative treatments. Its safe delivery has been made possible through a true team effort, ensuring robust pathways are in place to manage both established and emerging side effects."

A huge congratulations to all the teams across Velindre Cancer Service whose dedication and collaboration made this treatment milestone possible.