Improving melanoma detection using a new biopsy technique

Precision Tumor Sampling of Melanoma Using Laser Microbiopsy

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · NIH-10918893

This study is testing a new, gentle way to take skin samples from people with suspicious moles to help doctors better and more accurately detect melanoma, which could lead to earlier treatment and improved health outcomes.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (nih funded)
Locations1 site (AUSTIN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10918893 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the detection of melanoma, a common skin cancer, by utilizing a novel laser microbiopsy technique. This method aims to obtain tumor samples with minimal invasiveness, reducing the need for unnecessary biopsies that often occur with traditional methods. By combining genetic markers and histological analysis, the research seeks to improve the accuracy of melanoma diagnosis, potentially leading to earlier detection and better patient outcomes. The study will involve patients who have suspicious skin lesions that may require biopsy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are individuals with suspicious skin lesions that may indicate melanoma.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any suspicious skin lesions or those with a confirmed diagnosis of melanoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies and improve early detection rates of melanoma, leading to better survival outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using genetic markers and histological analysis for melanoma diagnosis, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in detection methods.

Where this research is happening

AUSTIN, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.