Cutaneous Melanoma: A Review.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the US, with incidence rising significantly.
• Cutaneous melanoma accounts for 94% of cases, presenting as irregular skin lesions.
• Risk factors include UV exposure, skin type, nevi, and personal/family history.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current treatment strategies for cutaneous melanoma based on disease stage.
• To highlight advancements in immunotherapy and targeted therapy for advanced melanoma.
• To provide an overview of melanoma incidence, risk factors, and survival rates.

Main Methods:

• Review of United States Cancer Statistics data (1999-2021) for disease staging and outcomes.
• Analysis of clinical trial data on adjuvant anti-PD-1 immunotherapy for stage IIB-C melanoma.
• Evaluation of treatment efficacy for stage III and metastatic melanoma using immunotherapy and BRAF+MEK inhibitors.

Main Results:

• Localized melanoma (stage IA-IIA) is treated with surgical excision.
• Adjuvant anti-PD-1 immunotherapy improves recurrence-free survival in stage IIB-C melanoma.
• Immunotherapy and BRAF+MEK inhibitors decrease recurrence risk in stage III melanoma.
• Dual checkpoint blockade (ipilimumab/nivolumab) is first-line for metastatic melanoma, with a 43% 10-year survival rate.

Conclusions:

• Treatment for cutaneous melanoma is stage-dependent, ranging from surgery to advanced immunotherapies.
• Adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapies significantly improve outcomes for resectable and unresectable melanoma.
• Continued research and advancements in treatment are crucial for improving melanoma survival rates.