MELANOMA CAMERA
By: Charlotte Ames
Updated: May 29, 2007
Researchers are testing a new technique for the diagnosis of melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer. It’s called conformal scanning laser microscopy, or CSLM. CSLM uses a laser light aimed at the skin through a special lens.
Pigment in the skin provides important contrast data. The signals from the reflected light are picked up by a detector and analyzed by a computer, which displays the information on a screen. Since melanomas arise from the pigmenting cells, the technique can readily pick up scattered differences in cell pigmentation throughout the lesion. Thus, the technique enables physicians to get a closer look at the actual cells beneath the skin.
Researchers have only just begun to study the value of CSLM for melanoma. More studies need to be done to help doctors learn how to use the technology to differentiate between melanoma and benign moles.
Pigment in the skin provides important contrast data. The signals from the reflected light are picked up by a detector and analyzed by a computer, which displays the information on a screen. Since melanomas arise from the pigmenting cells, the technique can readily pick up scattered differences in cell pigmentation throughout the lesion. Thus, the technique enables physicians to get a closer look at the actual cells beneath the skin.
Researchers have only just begun to study the value of CSLM for melanoma. More studies need to be done to help doctors learn how to use the technology to differentiate between melanoma and benign moles.
Charlotte Ames is the area's only local Health Reporter and brings you the latest medical health news weeknights. You can catch Healthcast on WTAJ News at 5:00pm and her Health Headlines report on WTAJ News at 5:30pm.