Video comparator system for early detection of cutaneous malignant melanoma

Eric R. Craine; Brian L. Craine M.D.

doi:10.1117/12.59518

1 May 1992 Video comparator system for early detection of cutaneous malignant melanoma

Eric R. Craine, Brian L. Craine M.D.

Proceedings Volume 1653, Medical Imaging VI: Image Capture, Formatting, and Display; (1992) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.59518
Event: Medical Imaging VI, 1992, Newport Beach, CA, United States

Abstract

The recognized incidence of cutaneous malignant melanoma in the United States is now rising faster than any other cancer, increasing by 83% from 1980 to 1987. Recent revelations that depletion of the earth's ozone layer is accelerating at a more rapid rate than previously believed can only exacerbate current projections for the increased incidence of this deadly disease. Because there is no good treatment for metastatic melanoma even small cancers often prove fatal if not detected early. Melanoma allowed to invade the subcutaneous tissue is associated with a five-year survival rate of only 44%. Ironically, few cancers provide a greater opportunity for early discovery and cure. Cutaneous melanoma is not only located where it is readily observed, but typically undergoes a `radial growth' phase prior to metastasis. During this phase the net growth is superficial and circumferential, gradually increasing the area of the lesion and changing its coloration. Screening measures for the early detection of melanoma must concentrate on two primary tasks: (1) detection of lesion changes indicative of the radial growth stage of malignancy and (2) alerting the patient and physician to the existence of a new or changed lesion on the skin. To accomplish these goals we have experimented with the applicability of a microcomputer based video imaging system which stores an image archive of historical reference images for each patient. With the acquisition of new images of the patient, easily registered with the archival images through a technique we have developed we are able to perform a blink comparison of the image pairs. This technique appears to be far more effective than currently used techniques for detecting changed lesions on a comprehensive basis.

Citation Download Citation

Eric R. Craine and Brian L. Craine M.D. "Video comparator system for early detection of cutaneous malignant melanoma", Proc. SPIE 1653, Medical Imaging VI: Image Capture, Formatting, and Display, (1 May 1992); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.59518

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