New biomarker test aims to improve early-stage melanoma treatment
AMLo Biosciences has announced that AMBLor, a groundbreaking histopathological biomarker test to identify early-stage melanoma with low risk of progression, has received the UKCA mark.
This in vitro diagnostic (IVD) test can reliably classify non-ulcerating AJCC stage I-II melanomas, potentially sparing patients from further diagnostic procedures and lengthy follow-up schedules.
The UKCA label will allow AMBLor to be sold in the UK and available to healthcare professionals.
A recent Freedom of Information (FOI) request by the Liberal Democrats revealed a 25% increase in the number of patients on the NHS skin cancer waiting list, with around 3,500 patients waiting longer than the standard 62 days to start treatment.
Using AMBLor nationwide could help identify low-risk melanomas and reduce waiting lists by freeing up appointments for other patients.
Dr Marie Rabas, CEO of AMLo Biosciences, commented: “We are pleased to see AMBLor now UKCA marked and available across the NHS and private hospitals. Adding this simple, effective, low-cost biomarker assay to existing early melanoma diagnostic tests can provide accurate prognostic information on tumour progression.”
“We believe this will enable clinicians to offer a more personalised approach to disease management, including considering the need for sentinel lymph node biopsy, and may also ease patients’ anxiety during a difficult time.”
Aidan Rose, consultant plastic surgeon at Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, added: “It’s really fantastic news that AMBLor has received the UKCA mark. Now that it’s available, we’re very hopeful that it will help inform clinical decision-making and relieve the significant strain that many services are currently experiencing.”
