Derm In The News: August 25-31

Health Tech World: AI shown to outperform human experts for skin cancer

A new NHS England report confirms that Skin Analytics' AI tool, DERM, performs well in skin cancer detection, with a 99.8% Negative Predictive Value, surpassing human dermatologists' 98.9%. DERM, tested on over 33,500 patients, can operate autonomously in the NHS if certified under UKCA IIa or CE III standards. Its use could significantly reduce the need for face-to-face consultations and biopsies.

CBS News: Protein from parasitic worm could help wounds heal faster

Researchers at Rutgers University have discovered that a protein derived from parasitic worms could enhance skin wound healing. When applied to wounds in mice, this purified protein accelerated healing, improved skin regeneration, and reduced scarring. The protein likely aids healing by boosting immune cells that encourage regeneration and suppressing those that lead to scarring. Future studies will test its effectiveness on human wounds.

FiercePharma: Merck’s Keytruda flunks pivotal studies in early-stage lung and skin cancers

Merck & Co. has halted 2 major trials involving its PD-1 inhibitor, Keytruda. The phase 3 KEYNOTE-867 trial for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) found that adding Keytruda to radiation did not improve outcomes and increased adverse events. Similarly, the phase 3 KEYNOTE-630 trial for Keytruda in high-risk cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma also failed to show benefits over placebo in preventing recurrence. These setbacks do not impact Keytruda’s established use in metastatic NSCLC.

The Hindu: Skin donations in Bengaluru pick up but demand still outstrips supply

Despite increased donations at the only skin bank in Bengaluru, India, demand continues to exceed supply. Since its establishment in March 2016, the bank has received 227 donations and fulfilled about 65% of 391 requests, using the donated skin for grafts in 242 patients. The bank currently holds 8,000 sq.cm of skin but faces challenges due to limited harvesting capabilities, as donations can only be collected around Bengaluru. To address this, there is a need for trained teams in other districts.

Have you seen any dermatology headlines this week that we may have missed? Share with us by emailing our team at DTEditor@mmhgroup.com.