May 24, 2013 | Digital Pathology, Instruments & Equipment, Laboratory Instruments & Laboratory Equipment, Laboratory News, Laboratory Operations, Laboratory Pathology
New discoveries demonstrate important advantages of whole-genome sequencing in investigations of DNA ‘dark matter’ and shed light on the possible origins of cancer
Whole-genome scanning of cancer cells revealed significant mutations in the “dark matter” areas of melanoma DNA. This represents a leap forward in the basic science of cancer. Easier access to whole-genome sequencing means that researchers are poised to mine a rich vein of data that will shine a light on how cells malfunction.
For pathologists and clinical laboratory managers, these new research findings hold the promise to open up another approach to using the data in whole human genomes for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. It also shows one more practical outcome from the rapidly falling cost of sequencing DNA. (more…)
Mar 15, 2010 | Laboratory News, Laboratory Pathology, Uncategorized
Company intends to use pattern recognition software to evaluate risk of skin cancer
A “do it yourself” dermatopathology service for consumers is coming soon, according to Health Discovery Corporation (HDC) of Savannah, Georgia. The company is preparing to introduce a cell phone-based tool to help consumers recognize whether a mole or other skin lesion needs examination by a dermatologist.
Using their cell phone cameras, consumers would click a photo of the skin lesion, then forward that image to a computer at HDC. Using pattern recognition algorithms developed by the company, called Support Vector Machines, the computer would analyze the image. A report telling the consumer whether the lesion was low, medium or high risk for skin cancer would be sent as a text message. This text message would include a list of dermatologists located near the consumer. The list of dermatologist referrals would be targeted to the user’s geographic area. HPC would compile this list, based on GPS data collected from the cell phone transmission.
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Nov 20, 2009 | Digital Pathology, Laboratory Management and Operations, Laboratory News, Laboratory Pathology
Second opinion dermpath business combines digital pathology, glass slides, and the Internet.
Telepathology, Federal Express, and internet technologies are the cornerstones of a flourishing second opinion business by dermatopathologists in Boston, Massachusetts. In just a few years, the practice has built a national and international clientele. This confirms that there is already overseas demand for access to expert pathologists with subspecialty skills.
Another unique twist to this pathology second opinion business is its use of a subscription arrangement. Referring pathology groups can pay sliding flat fee per case, based on a pre-agreed monthly volume. This arrangement has proved popular.
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Aug 26, 2009 | Laboratory Management and Operations, Laboratory News, Laboratory Pathology
Deal with Abbott Labs gives Neogenomics access to proprietary probes
Diagnostic testing for melanoma generates a substantial number of tests annually, making it a lucrative target for any clinical laboratory or biotech company that can develop an assay that utilizes state-of-the-art molecular technologies and offers improved detection and accuracy.
Once company working to develop such a new diagnostic test for melanoma is Neogenomics, Inc. (OTC:NGNM.OB). It announced an agreement with Abbott Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE:ABT). on July 24, 2009. Abbott Laboratories will supply Neogenomics with proprietary probes to develop and commercialize its own FISH-based (Fluorescence in situ hyrbridization) test for melanoma.
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