31-Gene expression profiling for cutaneous melanoma: an expert consensus panel.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Genomics

Background:

• Invasive melanoma prognosis relies on traditional factors like tumor thickness.
• Accurate prognostic tools are crucial for effective melanoma management.
• The 31-gene expression profiling (31-GEP) test has emerged as a potential prognostic biomarker.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize published literature on the clinical efficacy, use, and accuracy of the 31-GEP test for invasive melanoma.
• To establish consensus-based recommendations for the application of 31-GEP testing in melanoma patient management.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted using specific keywords related to 31-GEP testing and melanoma prognosis.
• A panel of 10 expert dermatologists reviewed selected articles and developed consensus statements.
• A modified Delphi process with real-time voting and strength of recommendation assignment was employed to approve statements.

Main Results:

• Out of 150 articles identified, 26 met the inclusion criteria for the review.
• The expert panel unanimously adopted 9 consensus statements and recommendations for 31-GEP testing.
• Eight recommendations received strength 'A' and one received strength 'C'.

Conclusions:

• There is strong evidence supporting the use of 31-GEP testing for prognostic information in invasive melanoma.
• The 31-GEP test enhances prognostic accuracy, particularly when traditional factors are indeterminate or when combined with AJCC staging.
• The test is associated with improved melanoma-specific mortality and overall survival, supporting its role as a best practice.