A new AI tool developed at the University of Melbourne helps transform the way skin cancer is detected.
The technology could save lives, reduce unnecessary biopsies and reduce medical costs while addressing long-standing stock gaps in diagnosis.
Researcher Dr. Noor e Karishma Shaik integrates AI with thermal multimodal imaging for point-of-care diagnostics to identify abnormal skin lesions in real time.
“Current diagnostic methods rely heavily on visual inspections, followed by biopsies, which is a flawed approach as they are prone to both under-diagnosis and over-diagnosis,” Dr. Shaikh said.
“Our non-invasive technology not only eliminates the risk of human error, it is time-consuming, costly and works equally across all skin tones.”
In a recent pilot study at the Skin Health Institute (SHI), the AI tool achieved 94% diagnostic accuracy. Four clinicians and 30 patients approved the tool and praised its clinical value and ease of use.
“Unlike existing cameras and microscope-based systems, this handheld technology simultaneously captures multiple data types, including heat and physiological information, allowing clinicians to see under the surface of the skin,” said Dr. Shaik.
Professor Peter Foley, SHI's Director of Research and Partner Investigator, said the development of the technology represents a major advance in skin diagnosis.
“The ability to objectively evaluate lesions in real time is exactly the kind of innovation the field needs,” Associate Professor Foley said.
“What impressed us most is how accessible this technology can be for not only professionals, but also for the general practitioners across the country, especially in rural and remote areas where access to specialized care is limited.”
Skin cancer affects two in three Australians by the age of 70, with one person dying from illness every six hours.
In 2024, more than 600,000 unnecessary skin biopsies were performed in Australia, costing over $400 million.
“We are solving real-world problems by helping deliver faster care, reducing the number of invasive procedures, and providing more equitable access to early diagnosis,” Dr. Shaikh said.
The commercial scale trial by Molemap Australia begins in August is aimed at verifying devices in a real-world clinical setting and notifying regulatory approval.
Following the trial, commercial expansion is expected within two to three years.
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