Improving early detection of skin cancer using advanced image analysis.
Official title: Skin Lesion Archive and Annotation for Fusion and Earlier Skin Cancer Detection
Funded at Missouri University of Science & Technology · NIH-10796216 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new ways to help doctors spot melanoma, a type of skin cancer, faster and more accurately by using advanced technology and expert advice, so patients can get the care they need without long waits.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Missouri University of Science & Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rolla, United States) |
| Project start | April 3, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $440,011 |
| NIH project number | 1R15CA287304-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10796216 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for melanoma, particularly those with suspicious skin lesions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-skin-related health issues or those who do not have any skin lesions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the detection of melanoma, a type of skin cancer, by utilizing advanced image-processing tools and deep learning techniques. It aims to address delays in diagnosis caused by long wait times for specialist appointments and insufficient training for mid-level practitioners. By annotating critical skin lesion structures with the help of multiple experts, the project seeks to improve the accuracy of automated systems that can assist in identifying melanoma during both in-person and virtual consultations. The research will leverage a large archive of dermoscopy images to train these computational techniques effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of melanoma, potentially saving lives through timely intervention.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results using similar advanced image analysis techniques for skin cancer detection, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Missouri University of Science & Technology
Rolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stanley, Ronald J — Missouri University of Science & Technology
- Study coordinator: Stanley, Ronald J
Related research
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CivaDerm: a new four-day skin cancer radiation bandage
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PASS: A family-based approach to sun safety in schools
A parent-focused program delivered through schools aims to help families protect children from sun exposure and reduce skin cancer risk.
-
Precision skin cancer risk feedback in community clinics
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.