Practical application of new technologies for melanoma diagnosis : Part I. Noninvasive approaches

Confirming a diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma requires obtaining a skin biopsy specimen. However, obtaining numerous biopsy specimens—which often happens in patients with increased melanoma risk—is associated with significant cost and morbidity. While some melanomas are easily recognized by the naked eye, many can be difficult to distinguish from nevi, and therefore there is a need and opportunity to develop new technologies that can facilitate clinical examination and melanoma diagnosis. In part I of this 2-part continuing medical education article, we will review the practical applications of emerging technologies for noninvasive melanoma diagnosis, including mobile (smartphone) applications, multispectral imaging (ie, MoleMate and MelaFind), and electrical impedance spectroscopy (Nevisense).