A Simple Blood Test for Melanoma Detection?

Researchers in Australia developed an experimental blood test for melanoma detection. They tested blood samples for the 10 antibodies most commonly found in conjunction with melanoma, and the test detected these antibodies with significant accuracy. 

The researchers screened 245 blood samples from patients with melanoma and healthy controls. The blood test detected melanoma with 79% accuracy and detected those without melanoma with 84% accuracy.

Blood test hope for skin cancer #melanoma http://t.co/P0LBjZuAZt

— Miguel Perales M.D. (@DrMiguelPerales) November 4, 2013

However, patients who had a positive blood test result would still need a biopsy for confirmation and to determine the stage of cancer. This new test has not undergone clinical trials.  

Rapid blood test for melanoma launched in Australia https://t.co/PtTjPmGnSu

— FirstWord HealthTech (@fwhealthtech) November 18, 2016

The researchers believe this test will help alleviate costs and patient burden for those undergoing melanoma biopsy. They hope that with further testing, this blood test could be distributed internationally for use within 5 years. 

Read the study.  

Source: CNN