Genetics of Melanoma


Book Description

This book discusses the molecular, biological, pathological, and clinical aspects of melanoma, with special emphasis in the new concepts of melanoma genetics. A multidisciplinary group of experts in Genetics, Dermatology, Pathology, and Melanoma Medical Oncology contribute state-of-the-art knowledge in melanoma research and clinical management, not only exposing the current status of knowledge of the topics but also providing their personal experiences and ideas about the future and potential practical application of the genetic aspects of melanoma. During the last few years we have witnessed an impressive amount of discoveries in the field of melanoma genetics which have changed our approach in understanding the pathogenesis and treatment of this lethal disease. Genetics of Melanoma is a practical approach to melanoma genetic mechanisms and their application in the diagnosis and treatment of this malignancy. It is an essential source of updated information and a powerful tool for clinicians, pathologists, and basic scientists who wish to understand, apply, and investigate the multiple new aspects of melanoma genetics.







Recent Advances in the Biology, Therapy and Management of Melanoma


Book Description

The book Recent Advances in the Biology, Therapy and Management of Melanoma brings up-to-date information regarding a number of aspects which culminate in illuminating potential targets in the fight against melanoma. This book is intended to be a reference book for both the scientific and clinical communities and brings complicated subject matter together in an easy, readable way. Undoubtedly fundamental scientific understanding has to then be translated to the clinic in order for us to make significant strides in eradicating melanoma. It is hoped that scientists, clinicians, students and residents find this book useful in their studies on melanoma and that it not only expands their perspectives and views on the field, but challenges them to forge ahead towards discovering the ultimate cure.




Human Skin Cancers


Book Description

Human skin cancers, the most common type of tumors, represent a significant health burden. The deadliest is unquestionably melanoma. Half of melanomas have an activating mutation in the BRAF gene, prompting development of novel drugs, vemurafenib and dabrafenib, specifically targeting mutated BRAF. Trametinib and cobimetinib, which block MEK, a BRAF effector protein, have been used in combination with BRAF inhibitors. A promising new melanoma treatment is immunotherapy, approach that boosts patient's own immune system to attack cancer. Pembrolizumab and nivolumab inhibit PD-1, whereas Ipilimumab targets CTLA-4, another immunity check point, to boost the immune response. Here we focus on pathways, mechanisms, targets and treatments of human skin cancers, with particular emphasis on the new developments in the research on melanomas.




Dermato-Oncology Study Guide


Book Description

This book provides clinicians, clinicians-in-training and researchers with a unique rapid-access educational resource on the spectrum of issues at the intersection of skin and malignancy. In it, there is clinical detail provided on how the skin reveals systemic malignancy via cutaneous metastases, genodermatoses or paraneoplastic dermatoses. At the same time, it reviews pharmacologic treatment of internal malignancy and how this can result in cutaneous adverse reactions; conversely, therapeutics for skin conditions can increase risk for internal malignancy. As arguably the most significant cutaneous malignancy, melanoma receives specific attention for its metastatic potential, current diagnostic advances, and recent therapeutic breakthroughs. Dermato-Oncology Study Guide: Essential Text and Review serves a critical educational need for clinicians caring for patients with systemic malignancy by creating an easy-to-use resource that provides practical tools to recognize skin signs of internal malignancy. Furthermore it helps in anticipating and managing adverse reactions of therapeutics for systemic malignancy, and gives the reader the opportunity to weigh the risks of malignancy of pharmacologic agents for skin disease.




Hereditary Malignant Melanoma


Book Description

First published in 1991: The book focuses only on hereditary malignant melanoma. The epidemic of cutaneous melanoma which is now occurring in the sun belt areas of the world is due partly to a susceptible subgroup of Caucasians who have immigrated there.




Practical Medical Oncology Textbook


Book Description

This textbook combines essential information on clinical cancer medicine with a guide to the latest advances in molecular oncology and tumor biology. Providing a systematic overview of all types of solid tumors, including epidemiology and cancer prevention, genetic aspects of hereditary cancers, differential diagnosis, typical signs and symptoms, diagnostic strategies and staging, and treatment modalities, it also discusses new and innovative cancer treatments, particularly targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Expert commentaries at the end of each chapter highlight key points, offer insights, suggest further reading and discuss clinical application using case descriptions. This textbook is an invaluable, practice-oriented tool for medical students just beginning their clinical oncology studies, as well as for medical oncology residents and young professionals.







A Cancer in the Family


Book Description

A Kirkus Best Book of 2016 Oncologist and cancer gene hunter Theo Ross delivers the first authoritative, go-to for people facing a genetic predisposition for cancer There are 13 million people with cancer in the United States, and it’s estimated that about 1.3 million of these cases are hereditary. Yet despite advanced training in cancer genetics and years of practicing medicine, Dr. Theo Ross was never certain whether the history of cancers in her family was simple bad luck or a sign that they were carriers of a cancer-causing genetic mutation. Then she was diagnosed with melanoma, and for someone with a dark complexion, melanoma made no sense. It turned out there was a genetic factor at work. Using her own family’s story, the latest science of cancer genetics, and her experience as a practicing physician, Ross shows readers how to spot the patterns of inherited cancer, how to get tested for cancer-causing genes, and what to do if you have one. With a foreword by Siddartha Mukherjee, prize winning author of The Emperor of All Maladies, this will be the first authoritative, go-to for people facing inherited cancer, this book empowers readers to face their genetic heritage without fear and to make decisions that will keep them and their families healthy.




Cancer Genetics


Book Description

Cancer Genetics is a collection of chapters covering the key recent developments in cancer genetics which have an impact on clinical care. The target audience will be physicians and scientists who need to be apprised on the most recent developments in the field.