Etiology and Risk Factors
- Sun exposure
- Severe sunburn at a young age
- Features associated with a fair complexion
- Number of melanocytic nevi
- Presence and number of dysplastic nevi
- Positive family history
Diagnosis
- Physical examination of the suspicious lump or mole.
- Changes in the size, shape, colour, or feel of a mole is often the first warning sign of melanoma
- The principle screening characteristics of melanoma are included in the acronym ACBDE.
- This helps doctors determine which lesions are suspicious and should be biopsied.
- The ABCDE acronym can also be used by individuals when they are checking themselves for suspicious spots.
Biomarker
- BRAF gene mutation testing has emerged as an important tool for diagnosis and treatment of melanoma
- For patients with BRAF mutated tumors, the recommended treatment is a BRAF inhibitor
Treatment
- Early Stage (Stage I & II): cured by surgery, no role for systemic therapy
- Late Stage: Unresectable or Metastatic disease: Systemic therapy
– Chemotherapy
– Targeted therapy
– Immunotherapy