The latest clinical trials for melanoma

INTRODUCTION Clinical trials encompass new methods for prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment, which we will briefly address. Melanoma is a malignant tumor that arises from melanocytes and is recognized as the deadliest and most metastatic form of skin cancer, which also accounting for rare cases. In the past, the pathological diagnosis of skin melanoma was performed using histopathology, classifying melanocytic lesions from benign to malignant. However, there is now a significant focus on using biomarkers for diagnosis. For instance, gene expression patterns can serve as prognostic markers, such as monitoring serum LDH levels, which can also be used to track patient responses to treatment. Additionally, analyzing circulating DNA can help identify mutations in BRAF, NRAS, and KIT or assess gene panels. Nowadays, precise and sensitive molecular assays and tests are employed to determine the malignancy of lesions or for molecular pathology, while also investigating hereditary factors. METHODS A review of the PubMed database along with searches for related clinical trials, the results of these statistical tests and trials are given in the result section. RESULT A variety of treatments for melanoma have emerged, including immunotherapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and monoclonal antibodies targeting PD-۱ or CTLA-۴, along with targeted therapies. The combination of these methods for more effective treatment is increasingly common. Treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as BRAF and MEK kinase inhibitors, involves standard doses of dabrafenib plus trametinib for patients with advanced melanoma harboring BRAFV۶۰۰ mutations. Another significant approach is the simultaneous and combined use of monoclonal antibodies like fianlimab and cemiplimab for treating individuals with advanced melanoma, provided these patients have not previously received anti–PD-۱ therapy. Furthermore, immunotherapy drugs such as Pembrolizumab and combinations like nivolumab plus ipilimumab or nivolumab versus ipilimumab are used in advanced melanoma cases. Survivors of melanoma should follow care plans that include regular total cutaneous exams (TCEs) and regular skin self-examination (SSE) at appropriate intervals. They can also utilize online behavioral programs like My Smart Skin (MSS) to ensure early detection of any recurrence. Additionally, protecting themselves from sunlight by wearing protective clothing, wearing a hats, avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours, staying in the shade, and using suitable sunscreens that cover both UVA and UVB rays is essential. CONCLUSION In summary, with early detection, the chances of successful treatment increases significantly, because melanoma becomes more lethal as it progresses to advanced stages and metastasizes. Therefore, everyone should protect their skin from excessive UV exposure and promptly consult a specialist if any suspicious changes occur.

کلیدواژه ها:

Skin melanoma ، diagnostics ، biomarkers ، immune checkpoint inhibitors ، Treatment