DermTech

About DermTech

DermTech is a molecular diagnostics company operating in the precision dermatology sector, focusing on the genomic analysis of skin conditions. Founded in 2010 by Dr. George Schwartz and Dr. John Dobak, the company aimed to create a non-invasive method for dermatological diagnostics. Dr. Dobak, who served as CEO until May 2023, was inspired to start the company after someone in his life experienced a delayed melanoma diagnosis. His background includes a medical doctorate from UCSD and founding several other venture-backed life science companies. Bret Christensen took over as President and CEO in May 2023.

The company's core business revolves around laboratory services that generate revenue through the sale of its genomic tests to dermatologists and other healthcare providers. DermTech also provides genomic testing services to pharmaceutical companies to support the development of new dermatological treatments. A significant milestone was achieved in August 2019 when the company went public on the Nasdaq through a merger with Constellation Alpha Capital Corp.

DermTech's principal product is the DermTech Melanoma Test (DMT), which includes the Pigmented Lesion Assay (PLA). This test utilizes a proprietary adhesive patch, or "Smart Sticker," to collect skin cells from a suspicious mole or lesion without the need for a surgical biopsy. The collected sample is then sent to DermTech's CLIA-licensed laboratory for genomic analysis. The lab tests for the expression of genes like LINC00518 and PRAME, which are associated with melanoma. The process offers a high degree of accuracy, with a negative predictive value (NPV) of over 99%, meaning there is a very low probability of missing a melanoma. This method provides an objective, genomic-based assessment to aid clinicians in deciding whether a surgical biopsy is necessary, thus reducing unnecessary procedures and potential scarring. In 2021, the company launched an enhanced version called PLAplus, which adds DNA driver mutation analysis of the TERT gene to improve sensitivity for early melanoma detection.