SkylineDx's MERLIN_001 Trial Validates Melanoma Risk Test's Predictive Power

SkylineDx has published results from its significant MERLIN_001 trial in JAMA Surgery, confirming the accuracy of the Merlin CP-GEP Test in assessing sentinel node metastasis risk in melanoma patients. The trial, enrolling 1,761 cases across prominent U.S. cancer centers, highlights the test's ability to distinguish high-risk patients, reflecting a three-fold increased risk of metastasis compared to low-risk individuals.

Key findings indicated that 63% of patients were classified as high-risk, demonstrating a 23.8% metastasis likelihood, while 37% were low-risk with a 7.1% rate. The test's efficacy was particularly noted in patients over 65 and those with head and neck melanomas. The Merlin CP-GEP Test's incorporation of clinicopathologic and gene expression data enhances sentinel lymph node biopsy decision-making efficiency, which could optimize personalized melanoma treatment plans.