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A Melanoma Patient-Derived Xenograft Model
Published on: May 20, 2019
Adjuvant radiotherapy for cutaneous melanoma
William M Mendenhall1, Robert J Amdur, Stephen R Grobmyer
1Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida 32610-0385, USA. mendwm@shands.ufl.edu
Cancer
|February 9, 2008
Summary
Adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) improves locoregional control in high-risk melanoma patients after surgery. While effective for preventing recurrence, RT
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Locally advanced melanoma carries a high risk of locoregional recurrence post-surgery.
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) positivity is over 20% for melanomas >2 mm thick.
- Positive SLNB and extracapsular extension increase regional recurrence risk after lymph node dissection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on the efficacy of adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) for melanoma treatment.
- To assess the role of RT in managing locoregional recurrence risk.
- To evaluate the benefits and risks of adjuvant RT in high-risk melanoma patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on adjuvant radiotherapy for melanoma.
- Analysis of recurrence rates and complication risks associated with RT.
- Evaluation of RT's impact on locoregional control and survival.
Main Results:
- Adjuvant RT achieves locoregional control rates of 85-90% or higher in high-risk patients.
- RT is associated with a modest risk of complications.
- The impact of adjuvant RT on overall survival appears minimal.
Conclusions:
- Adjuvant radiotherapy is effective in improving locoregional control for high-risk melanoma patients.
- RT offers significant benefit in preventing recurrence after surgery.
- While survival benefit is uncertain, RT is a valuable tool for managing recurrence risk.
