[Current treatments for advanced stage melanoma]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Immunology

Context:

• Melanoma incidence has significantly increased, particularly in the USA, highlighting an urgent need for effective treatments.
• Metastatic melanoma remains a challenging condition with limited curative options, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.

Purpose:

• To review current systemic treatment options for melanoma.
• To provide an overview of conventional chemotherapy, molecularly targeted therapies, and immunotherapies.
• To discuss emerging treatments including angiogenesis inhibitors, apoptosis modulators, vaccines, and radiotherapy.

Summary:

• The review covers conventional chemotherapy, molecular therapies (MAPK inhibitors), and immunotherapies (interleukin-2, tumor necrosis factor alpha, CTLA-4, PD-1 inhibitors).
• It also explores miscellaneous options such as angiogenesis inhibitors, apoptosis modulators, vaccines, and radiotherapy for melanoma treatment.
• Advances in understanding melanoma pathophysiology have led to the development of targeted drugs with improved response rates.

Impact:

• Highlights the evolving landscape of melanoma treatment, moving beyond conventional methods.
• Provides a comprehensive resource for clinicians and researchers on current and emerging melanoma therapies.
• Emphasizes the progress made in developing more effective treatments for melanoma, particularly for advanced stages.