Melanoma blood test which detects skin cancer before it's visible to naked eye could be available within months

A new blood test developed by scientists in Melbourne could detect melanomas before they're even visible to the naked eye.

About 2000 Australians are killed by skin cancer each year but a new research breakthrough could save countless lives from the deadly disease.

The blood tests measure the biomarker of cancer and can identify melanoma before symptoms are shown on the skin.

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The researchers say the method has a 97 per cent accuracy rate when determining between benign and different stages of melanoma.

If the blood test is given the green light by the regulator, it could be available to use within the next six months.

It is expected to be available at some point next year.

But it will not come cheap; 9News understands that it is not covered by the government, meaning it could cost patients between $1200 and $1500 per test. 

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The technology was developed alongside inventor Genesq Biosciences and pathology provider Australian Clinical Labs (ACL).

Melanoma is the third most common cancer in Australia and is the most common for Australians aged between 20 and 39.

About 90 per cent of melanomas can be cured by surgery if caught early.

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