DermTech Announces JAMA Dermatology Publication Highlighting the PLA Utility

LA JOLLA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- DermTech, the global leader in non-invasive molecular dermatology, announced today the publication of a Letter to the Editor by Dr. Maria Childs, in JAMA Dermatology (December 2017) titled "Noninvasive Gene Expression Testing in Amelanotic Melanoma”. The publication highlights the utility of DermTech’s non-invasive gene-expression test, the Pigmented Lesion Assay (PLA), in even more difficult to diagnose amelanotic melanomas. The PLA tool helped the dermatologist to correctly diagnose melanoma in a patient who was reluctant to receive a surgical biopsy. After a PLA positive result, the patient agreed to a surgical shave biopsy which established a diagnosis of malignant melanoma, Breslow’s thickness of 0.6mm. A second gene expression test, a 23-gene algorithmic test, also including PRAME but not LINC00518, was ordered to further corroborate histopathology findings. That test was negative, highlighting the importance of LINC in DermTech’s 2-gene assay.

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Clinical appearance of amelanotic melanoma (Photo: Business Wire)

“The availability of this non-invasive gene expression test made a clear difference to my patient’s life and future. Catching this amelanotic melanoma early significantly improved prognosis and treatment outcome,” said Dr. Childs.

About DermTech

DermTech is the global leader in molecular dermatology, bringing precision medicine to the diagnosis and treatment of skin disease. We market and develop products that facilitate the early detection of skin cancers, assess inflammatory diseases, and customize drug treatments. DermTech analyzes skin biopsy samples collected non-invasively using an adhesive patch rather than a scalpel. Our mission is to transform dermatology by delivering highly accurate and objective information to the clinician to improve care and reduce costs and to pharma partners to support the development of targeted therapeutics. For additional information visit: dermtech.com.

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