Early Detection of Skin Cancer: New Diagnostic Method Without Tissue Sampling

Melanoma (malignant melanoma) originates from the degeneration of pigment cells (melanocytes). In its very early stages, this cancer forms metastases, which then begin to spread through lymphatic and blood vessels. This makes it one of the most aggressive tumors. The number of new cases is steadily increasing.

Therefore, early and reliable diagnosis of this tumor is of significant importance. Existing diagnostic methods have proven to be insufficient. More than 90% of tissue biopsies are later found to be unnecessary (according to histological reports). This unfortunate reality may soon be eliminated. A method developed by LTB, under the leadership of M. Scholz and D. Leupold, has proven to be highly sensitive and reliable in numerous patient studies conducted in collaboration with dermatologists and histologists. This method uses the radiation properties (fluorescence) of the pigment responsible for skin color, melanin, in its natural environment to detect the malignancy of the tumor, a technique previously thought impossible. Through years of research, a solution has now been found. Early detection of malignant melanoma is now “relatively” easy. The suspicious skin area can be visually examined directly on the patient, and the result is available within minutes. Unnecessary tissue biopsies and long, stressful waiting times for results can be avoided. The already considerable physical and psychological burden on the patient can be significantly reduced.

The development work was partially co-financed with funds from the EU, the federal government, and the state of Berlin.