Rapid Fluorescent Screening Test for Skin Malignancy

Abstract

Preliminary results are outlined of a fluorescent test for the screening of skin tumors. Tumors are tested by application of a 1% demethylchlortetracycline (Declomycin)-0.1% cyanocobalamin (vitamin B₁₂) solution while under observation with the Wood's light (black light). A bright yellow-green fluorescence will be noted in tumors painted with the demethylchlortetracycline-cyanocobalamin solution. A challenge solution of 4.9% trichloracetic acid is then applied to the fluorescent area. If the test is negative, the green fluorescence disappears. If the test is positive, yellow-green fluorescence must remain within crusts and granules of the tumor through a ten-second test period. Of a large variety of tumors tested, basal cell epitheliomas, squamous cell carcinomas, Bowen's disease (squamous cell carcinoma in situ), and certain senile keratoses were found to show a positive test. In screening these malignant and premalignant tumors, 68 of 75 tumors tested gave a positive test. Of 191 benign tumors tested, 186 showed a negative test.