Skin Cancer

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While the vast majority of basal cell carcinomas are treated and resolved with surgery, systemic therapy with one of the two hedgehog pathway inhibitors could be a treatment option for unresectable or metastasized disease, researchers reported at the American Academy of Dermatology annual meeting in San Diego this week.

A recent study explored varying statistical approaches to a metastatic risk model for identifying SCC tumors at high risk of metastasis. Researchers identified six risk factors.

Staging system is derived from a new dataset of patients from 10 cancer centers around the world. Dermatologists should consider AJCC tumor characteristics as well as other factors in risk assessment, counseling, and follow-up plans for patients. Update takes effect in January 2018.

A novel oral formulation of itraconazole designed to improve bioavailability is leveraging its activity as a Hedgehog pathway inhibitor to provide a low toxicity, effective treatment for patients with BCC Nevus Syndrome. Data show potential for rapid therapeutic benefit.

Melanoma tumor suppressor

A known oncogene previously associated with carcinomas of the breast, liver, ovaries, and colon appears to suppress the growth of melanoma cells, a team of researchers reported recently in Cell Reports.

Mole count in adolescents predictor of melanoma. Sun exposure habits develop in teen years. Prevent melanoma through sun protection. Reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies.

Melanoma in pregnancy

The controversies revolving around the risks and prognosis associated with melanoma and pregnancy are many and have been a flashpoint for much discussion and debate. While some controversies remain, clarity and consensus has been found among some of the current issues regarding melanoma and pregnancy.

Melanoma concern

For melanoma, patient and physician education is key. Laser treatment for hyperpigmentation in darker skin effective. Teledermatology could replace office visits in this underserved population.

Beginning this week, we will publish a series of case studies and quizzes on the subtypes and features of melanoma.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded the approval of ipilimumab (Yervoy) to include the treatment of pediatric melanoma patients 12 years and older with unresectable or metastatic disease.

Data-driven screening guidelines for skin cancer have been published electronically, in reaction to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force’s 2016 draft recommendation statement on skin cancer screening.

Extracorporeal photopheresis is underused for early-stage mycosis fungoides. ECP is capable of correcting the cytokine imbalance seen in patients with MF and results in an increase of Th1 cytokines. Clinicians should consider more frequent use in select patients