By Administrator at 12 May 2017, 10:59 AM

Melanoma is considered to be the deadliest form of skin cancer, and early detection is critical in improving survival rates. However, most melanoma research focuses on homogenous cancer cells that look similar and are easier to detect under the microscope.

In reality, most patients do not present with melanoma that’s uniform in color and size but instead may develop melanomas that are irregular and dark.

The gap between what’s focused on in the research setting and what’s seen clinically leaves room for misdiagnosis, which is why a new technique developed by researchers at the University of Missouri could prove invaluable in detecting and diagnosing melanomas, including those that have spread, or metastasized.1

The researchers used imaging spectrophotometry focused on single melanoma cells similar to those found most often in melanoma patients. They modified current detection systems, which use sound waves and absorption of light to examine tissues and cells, such that it merged light sources at a specific range in order to detect and examine single melanoma cells.

Study author Luis Polo-Parada, an associate professor of medical pharmacology and physiology, said in a press release:2

"Overall, our studies show that by using modified techniques we will be able to observe non-uniform cancer cells, regardless of their origin … Additionally, as these melanoma cells divide and distribute themselves throughout the blood, they can cause melanomas to metastasize.

We were able to observe those cancers as well. This method could help medical doctors and pathologists to detect cancers as they spread, becoming one of the tools in the fight against this fatal disease."

The new technique allowed the researchers to more efficiently diagnose not only human melanoma cells but breast cancer cells as well, even when, in the case of melanoma cells, they divided, becoming smaller and paler in color. By allowing for earlier detection and treatment, the new technique could ultimately save lives of those diagnosed with melanoma.

In the meantime, May is Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month, making it a perfect time to conducted a skin self-exam or visit your dermatologist for an annual skin check.

The best way to reduce your risk of melanoma is to protect your skin from excessive exposure to sunlight. Avoid getting sunburned and, if you plan to stay out in the sun for extended periods, wear sun-protective clothing and/or sunscreen to stay safe.


Sources:
1. Analyst Issue 9, 2017
2. Eurek Alert May 4, 2017

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