Melanoma: from diagnosis to immunotherapy - The journey through molecular medicine

Malignant melanoma is one of the most aggressive skin neoplasms and a major example of progress in modern oncology. The objective of this article is to review the most recent therapeutic data and the transition from diagnosis to modern immunotherapy based on a comprehensive review of the current literature and pivotal clinical trials. The results demonstrate that the profound understanding of the relationship between cancer and the immune system, along with the development of immunotherapies (CTLA-4 and PD-1 inhibitors) and targeted therapies (BRAF/MEK inhibitors), have radically changed the therapeutic approach and patient prognosis. Today, a significant number of patients can achieve long-term disease remission, even in advanced stages. Furthermore, modern molecular medicine has highlighted the importance of biomarkers, while neoadjuvant and adjuvant treatments significantly reduce the risk of relapse. In conclusion, the transition from chemotherapy to targeted and immunological therapies marks a new era in oncology, where treatment personalization and the utilization of the immune system itself constitute the core of the modern oncological strategy.