Breslow tumor thickness is a major prognostic factor for melanoma. As it is based on histopathological evaluation, it is not available to aid clinical decision making at the time of the melanoma diagnosis. In this work, we assessed the efficacy of multispectral imaging (MSI) to predict Breslow tumor thickness and developed a melanoma classification algorithm to determine the optimal surgical safety margins. First, we excluded nevi from the analysis with the use of a novel quantitative parameter. Based on this parameter, we could differentiate nevi and melanomas with a sensitivity of 89.60% and a specificity 88.11%. This initial step was followed by the categorization of melanomas into three different subgroups based on Breslow thickness (≤1 mm, 1-2 mm and >2 mm) with a sensitivity of 78.00% and specificity of 89.00% and a substantial agreement (κ = 0.67; 95% CI, 0.58-0.76). We compared our results to the performance of dermatologists and dermatology residents who assessed dermoscopic and clinical images of these melanomas and reached a sensitivity of 60.38% and specificity of 80.86% with a moderate agreement (κ = 0.41; 95% CI, 0.39-0.43). Based on our results, this novel method may aid the prediction of appropriate safety margins for curative melanoma excision.

ESDR456 - Multispectral imaging algorithm predicts Breslow tumor depth of malignant melanoma

The scientific meeting of the European Society for Dermatological Research (ESDR) is held yearly, usually in September. With an international attendance of more than 1000 skin scientists from around the globe, the four-day event includes short oral presentations from peer-reviewed abstracts, keynote lectures from international experts, sponsored symposia, satellite programs, educational events as well as an important focus on posters, networking and building collaborations amongst scientists. For more information about this year’s meeting visit our website.