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Published on: September 8, 2021
The Potential Efficacy of β-Blockers on Melanoma Survival: A Narrative Review
Abstract:
Melanoma is a common tumor accounting for around 3–5% of all cutaneous malignancies with worldwide increasing incidence. It is still associated with significant mortality despite the breakthrough of new innovative therapies within the last decade. A wide variety of treatment modalities is currently used for the management of melanoma, ranging from surgical excision of primary melanoma to adju-vant and palliative treatment with target molecules, including BRAF and MEK inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors. β-blockers have recently demonstrated in preclinical and clinical studies to reduce recurrence and to correlate with better overall survival in meta-static melanoma as an additional supportive treatment option, owing to their anti-tumor potential. Further investigation regarding their efficacy and safety profile is needed, since there are only few studies in the literature on this topic. Our aim is to evaluate the role and current status of β-blockers in melanoma management. The literature research includes peer-reviewed articles (clinical trials or scien-tific reviews). Studies were identified by searching electronic databases (MEDLINE and PubMed) till May 2020 and reference lists of respective articles. Only articles published in English language were included. J Drugs Dermatol. 20(4):380-383. doi:10.36849/JDD.5673.
Insights
Beta-blockers show potential as a supportive treatment for melanoma, possibly reducing recurrence and improving survival. Further research is needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in melanoma management.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Melanoma incidence and mortality remain high despite advances in treatment.
- Current melanoma therapies include surgery, targeted therapy (BRAF/MEK inhibitors), and immunotherapy (immune checkpoint inhibitors).
- Beta-blockers are emerging as a potential supportive treatment for melanoma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role and current status of beta-blockers in melanoma management.
- To review existing literature on beta-blockers' efficacy and safety in melanoma.
- To identify the anti-tumor potential of beta-blockers in preclinical and clinical studies.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of peer-reviewed articles, clinical trials, and scientific reviews.
- Databases searched include MEDLINE and PubMed up to May 2020.
- Inclusion criteria: English language publications.
Main Results:
- Preclinical and clinical studies suggest beta-blockers may reduce melanoma recurrence.
- Beta-blockers correlate with better overall survival in metastatic melanoma.
- Limited studies exist, necessitating further investigation into efficacy and safety.
Conclusions:
- Beta-blockers demonstrate anti-tumor potential as an additional supportive option in melanoma management.
- Further clinical trials are required to establish the definitive role and safety profile of beta-blockers.
- The growing evidence supports continued research into beta-blockers for melanoma treatment.
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