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Newcastle University Develops AI to Predict Outcomes of Aggressive Skin Cancer Treatments

  • By Admin

UK Study: Newcastle University researchers have created an innovative AI system named "DeepMerkel" to improve treatment predictions for Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC), an aggressive and rare form of skin cancer.

A team at Newcastle University has combined clinical expertise with advanced machine learning to develop DeepMerkel, an AI tool designed to predict the severity and treatment outcomes of MCC. This rare cancer primarily affects elderly individuals and those with compromised immune systems.

Dr. Tom Andrew, a Plastic Surgeon and CRUK-funded PhD student at Newcastle University, and the study’s first author, stated, "DeepMerkel is enabling us to forecast the progression and severity of Merkel Cell Carcinoma, allowing us to personalize treatments for optimal patient care. By leveraging AI, we can detect subtle trends and patterns in the data, enabling more accurate individual predictions."

The significance of this breakthrough lies in the rising incidence of MCC, which has doubled over the two decades leading up to 2020. Although it remains rare, MCC is increasingly affecting older populations and is known for its aggressive nature.

Dr. Aidan Rose, Senior Clinical Lecturer at Newcastle University, emphasized the importance of accurate predictions for guiding critical clinical decisions. "Treating aggressive skin cancers often involves complex decisions, including life-altering treatment options. Our AI developments allow for personalized survival predictions and equip medical teams with valuable insights for tailoring patient care," Dr. Rose noted.

The research team also includes Penny Lovat, Professor of Dermato-Oncology at Newcastle University, and a Consultant Plastic Surgeon from Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.


Newcastle University Seeks Families Connected to Historic Burial Ground

In a separate initiative, Newcastle University researchers are exploring the history of the Ballast Hills Burial Ground and are inviting relatives of those interred there to contribute to the project.

Project Lead Dr. Myra Giesen from the School of Education, Communication, and Language Sciences shared, "We aim to collaborate with individuals connected to Ballast Hills to ensure this historic site represents diverse stories and voices. Every story matters and plays a role in shaping history."

This call for participation seeks to honor the heritage and narratives of those connected to the historic site, ensuring their stories are preserved for future generations.