Unaddressed Challenges in the Treatment of Cutaneous Melanoma?

Medicina (Kaunas). 2024 May 28;60(6):884. doi: 10.3390/medicina60060884.

Abstract

Background and Objectives: While the management of noninvasive cutaneous melanoma (CM) is typically limited to a secondary excision to reduce recurrence risk and periodic follow-up, treating patients with advanced melanoma presents ongoing challenges. Materials and Methods: This review provides a comprehensive examination of both established and emerging pharmacologic strategies for advanced CM management, offering an up-to-date insight into the current therapeutic milieu. The dynamic landscape of advanced CM treatment is explored, highlighting the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies, either in monotherapy or combination regimens. Additionally, ongoing investigations into novel treatment modalities are thoroughly discussed, reflecting the evolving nature of melanoma management. Results: The therapeutic landscape for melanoma management is undergoing significant transformation. Although various treatment modalities exist, there remains a critical need for novel therapies, particularly for certain stages of melanoma or cases resistant to current options. Conclusions: Consequently, further studies are warranted to identify new treatment avenues and optimize the utilization of existing drugs.

Keywords: management; melanoma; personalized medicine; treatment; unaddressed challenges.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors* / therapeutic use
  • Melanoma* / drug therapy
  • Melanoma, Cutaneous Malignant
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy / methods
  • Skin Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Skin Neoplasms* / therapy

Substances

  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.