The Lancet Oncology: 66% of diagnostic biopsies for common skin cancer can be avoided using Michelson Diagnostics’ VivoSight OCT laser scanner

A major study published in leading cancer journal, The Lancet Oncology1 have ground-breaking findings on Michelson Diagnostics, the UK based medical device company that use multi-beam Optical Coherence Tomography (‘OCT’) technology, which can transform patient’s treatment and care of basal cell carcinomas (BCC). It was concluded that OCT-guided diagnosis, when compared to a standard punch biopsy could reduce the number of consultations and invasive procedures by a massive 66%.

Approximately 75% of skin cancers diagnosed in the UK are basal cell carcinomas2 . It is the most common form of skin cancer that is rapidly increasing, with it affecting one in five people in the white population in their lifetime3 . Annually, there are at least 150,000 cases in the UK and the number is growing, due to an aging population and sun exposure trends, creating a major burden on the NHS.

OCT is an advanced laser scanning tool which enables clinicians to non-invasively view below the surface of the skin at much higher resolutions than is possible with other technologies such as MRI or X-ray. Michelson Diagnostics’ VivoSight machine is already the world’s leading scanner for the skin and has revolutionised how dermatologists conduct their treatment plans. It is an innovative, radical, and exciting improvement for the healthcare service.

This new study, led by Professor Klara Mosterd and her research group at the University of Maastricht, used a large, randomised, controlled trial of 598 patients where the OCT scanner was pitched against the standard punch biopsy. Treatment decisions were made on the basis of diagnosis and treatment processes were then compared after 12 months, evaluating the rate of cancer recurrence and costs.

The results were powerful as it was discovered that “in 66% of patients, a biopsy could be avoided, thus minimising treatment delay and avoiding an invasive procedure.” The OCT diagnosis, therefore, was proved to be just as worthy as the standard punch biopsy, with the added value of preventing wounds and scarring on patients.

Punch biopsy treatment is also often significantly delayed. The OCT diagnosis and treatment plan allows for immediate (same day) treatment. This makes it extremely cost-effective as biopsy, histopathology and separate consultations are not needed.