Volume 10, Number 1 • January/February 2002 • Advanced Technologies

Photographic Comparisons Can Save Lives

Accurate skin monitoring and early detection of skin cancer can save lives. Photographic techniques used to accomplish this include registration methods to precisely match the location of lesions from one visit to the next. This technology was originally developed to support the Jet Propulsion Laboratory’s mission of robotic space exploration.

The JPL Biomedical Image Processing Laboratory (BIPL), working with Eye Dynamics Inc., developed a method of comparing dermatological images from a patient. These images were taken over time to monitor and track constantly changing moles that are at high risk of developing into malignant melanoma. This screening method uses sophisticated computerized registration points, optical image warping and a color-coding system that categorizes the moles photographed.

Images can be compared in a matter of minutes, while patients are still in the doctor’s office. The system displays a color-coded change image that highlights moles that are new or enlarged, which appear red, and moles that have disappeared or become smaller, which appear green.

The image showing the mole changes is presented to the dermatologist, who can then re-examine the patient during the same visit to assess the changes shown. This system improves the quality of care; enhances productivity; reduces the number of doctor visits; and can cut medical costs. Early detection of pre-cancerous lesion changes is essential to successful treatment.

Skin cancer is a major concern since some 500,000 Americans a year are afflicted with the ailment. What heightens this concern is that melanoma rates have tripled in the last 40 years. Another aspect of the problem has been the detection of all-new or changed skin lesions in individuals with a condition called multiple dysplastic nevi syndrome, where there can be dozens of lesions to screen. These patients are afflicted with numerous and constantly changing moles, and are at an even higher risk of developing malignant melanoma. The large number of moles makes it very difficult for dermatologists to detect all changes, even when using high-quality traditional photographs.

The JPL Biomedical Image Processing Laboratory was established in the early 1970s, with research efforts emphasizing the development of image-processing systems and methods to solve problems in automated microscopy. Highly successful systems were developed to karyotype chromosomes, measure muscle fiber size from biopsy specimens and automate PAP smear analysis for cervical cancer detection. Q

For more information, visit http://techtransfer.jpl.nasa.gov/success/success.html
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