Non-Invasive, Portable Optical Imaging Device for Early Detection of Melanoma in Aging Populations Using Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy

Skin cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer, with melanoma being the most deadly form. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, yet it remains challenging, as accurate diagnosis often requires expert medical knowledge. This study presents a novel, portable, and non-invasive optical imaging device designed for early detection of melanoma in clinical and non-clinical settings. By leveraging diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and incorporating a new 'Z criterion' into the established ABCD rule (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter), the device offers an enhanced assessment. The preliminary study on a cohort of elderly patients demonstrated the device's feasibility in detecting melanoma, showing significant promise for application in portable diagnostics and athome care.