Invention:
This technology is a diagnostic test that can help assess a patient's risk for developing skin cancer by measuring biomarker levels under specified conditions. Additionally, the test can help determine prophylactic treatment for an individual at risk of developing skin cancer.
Background:
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer among the Caucasian population worldwide, with an estimated 161,790 cases diagnosed in 2017, 74,680 cases being noninvasive and 87,110 cases being invasive. The estimated total annual cost of treating skin cancers is $8.1 billion in the US. Although the incidence of skin cancer continues to rise, skin cancer can be cured if detected early and can be prevented if appropriate preventative measures are taken. To improve the prevention of skin cancer, early detection and screening programs need to utilize biomarkers that indicate whether or not a patient has an increased risk of developing skin cancer.
Applications:
- Assessing risk of developing skin cancer
- Companion diagnostic
- Determining if a patient will benefit from preventative treatment
Advantages:
- Potential to improve the prevention of skin cancer
- Provides a clear indication of whether or not a patient has an increased risk of developing skin cancer
