The significance of melanoma genetic testing

Written by Cui Fang Bo
Oncology
Updated on November 17, 2024
00:00
00:00

The significance of genetic testing for melanoma patients mainly involves two aspects: first, the identification of specific driver gene mutations to guide the application of targeted drugs; second, the detection of mutations in some common genes to judge the prognosis of the disease. Regarding the target gene mutations for drug selection, the commonly used ones include mutations in C-KIT, BRAF, and M-TOR. If mutations in these target genes are found, corresponding targeted drugs can be used for treatment. These drugs are generally orally administered, have relatively good efficacy, low side effects, and are suitable for the treatment of melanoma. Additionally, some genetic tests can predict the prognosis of melanoma patients based on the presence or absence of mutations.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
28sec home-news-image

The difference between melanoma and moles

Melanoma and moles are distinguishable; firstly, moles are generally smaller, while melanomas have a larger diameter. Secondly, the color of a mole is more uniform, whereas the color of a melanoma is inconsistent in depth. Furthermore, moles are typically symmetric in shape, while melanomas are asymmetric. Lastly, melanoma is a type of malignant tumor, whereas a mole is simply a skin condition.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Cui Fang Bo
Oncology
38sec home-news-image

Melanoma originates from which tissue?

Melanoma does not originate from any specific tissue, but from melanocytes. Therefore, melanoma can occur in any tissue where melanocytes are present. The most common sites for melanoma are the skin and mucous membranes. Additionally, because melanocytes are widely present throughout the body, melanoma can also occur in hollow organs such as the gastrointestinal tract, in skeletal muscles, and in the nervous system. Once diagnosed, melanoma needs to be treated promptly. The main treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
43sec home-news-image

Is melanoma a malignant tumor?

Melanoma is a type of malignant tumor with a relatively high degree of malignancy and a high chance of metastasis, leading to a high mortality rate in the later stages. Once diagnosed, it is imperative to undergo surgical removal at a recognized hospital's dermatology department, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Melanomas usually develop from common melanocytic nevi, so if such nevi appear on the body, they should be treated correctly. If small, they can be removed with laser treatment; if slightly larger, surgical removal is recommended. If localized melanocytic nevi cause pain, itching, oozing, or bleeding, these could be precursors to malignant transformation and should be taken seriously.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
34sec home-news-image

Melanoma is divided into several types.

Melanoma is a type of malignant tumor with a relatively high level of malignancy. The exact causes of melanoma are not very clear but may be related to multiple factors including genetics, irritation, viral infection, and immunity. Generally, there are four types of melanoma: nodular melanoma, superficial spreading melanoma, acral lentiginous melanoma, and lentigo maligna melanoma. Once melanoma occurs, it is crucial to seek prompt medical diagnosis and treatment.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Sun Ming Yue
Medical Oncology
1min 8sec home-news-image

Does melanoma develop quickly?

If melanoma is diagnosed, this disease must not be taken lightly. It is crucial to seek timely medical treatment and not miss the optimal treatment window, thus avoiding serious consequences. The progression of melanoma is very rapid, so once detected, it should be treated as soon as possible. This approach helps to control the spread of the disease and reduce further damage to the body. Melanoma easily causes pigmentation of the skin and can lead to localized breakdown and bleeding. Generally, if the treatment is not timely, ulcers and satellite lesions may develop, thus having a greater impact. Melanoma is also a disease that tends to metastasize easily. Patients may experience nausea, vomiting, affected appetite, weakness in the limbs, and it can also affect the liver, lungs, brain, and bones, causing symptoms including bone pain. Therefore, it is imperative to detect and treat this disease early to improve the body's healing rate.