Scanner speeds up the search for skin cancer

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MunichFor people with many moles, skin cancer screening is often a laborious affair. That could change in the future, thanks to a dermatological full-body scanner.

Size, texture, color, delineation and changes over time - these are all parameters by which dermatologists assess a birthmark and thus search for skin cancer. In order to make it easier for them to get an overview, scientists from the Frauenhofer Society and the University Hospital in Magdeburg, together with partners from industry, developed a so-called Dermascanner.

Combined measurement data

For the examination, the patient stands in a kind of cabin in which he is photographed by several cameras from different angles. What is new is that, with the help of 3-D sensors, the location of the moles can be precisely assigned at a later follow-up examination - up until now this has sometimes been a challenge for doctors. In addition, the 3-D measuring points can be used to determine exactly which birthmarks have changed. "With our technology you can see growth from half a millimeter," says Dr. Christian Teutsch, co-developer of the scanner.

Exactly map of the birthmarks

This is particularly advantageous for people whose skin is covered with moles. When such a high-risk patient presents to the doctor again, it is often not possible to determine with conventional examination methods whether the location and size of the moles are still identical. Using the scan, an approximately standardized assessment of the condition and changes in the skin is now possible. But: "The diagnosis itself is and remains a matter for the doctor," emphasizes Teutsch. The technology is only helpful.

Early detection increases the chances of recovery

According to the German Cancer Society, around 200,000 people develop skin cancer every year. Black skin cancer, also known as malignant melanoma, is particularly dangerous and accounts for around ten percent of diseases. Compared to other types of skin cancer, it spreads to other organs relatively early. The sooner skin cancer is discovered, the better the chances of recovery. The Dermascanner is about to be ready for the market to support doctors. A first pilot system is already in place in the University Clinic in Magdeburg. Now the search is on for investors to bring the skin scanner into series production. (lh)

Source: Press release of the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft dated May 4th, 201

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