Melanoma 

Melanoma is a malignancy of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) located predominantly in the skin,  but also found in the eyes and mucous membranes of the GI tract and mouth.

A fair-skin phenotype and the occurrence of intense sun exposure in childhood and adolescence are universal risk factors for melanoma. Ultraviolet radiation as well as inherited cancer risk factors may induce genetic alterations and mutations in melanocytes,  driving these cells into malignant transformation. The melanoma tumor cells are associated with mutations  and alterations of genes, primarily, NRAS, BRAF and C-KIT.

In most cases, Melanoma is found in its early stages, and surgery is the primary mode of therapy which in turn provides the best opportunity for cure. When Melanoma is found in advanced stage, where the tumor has metastasize to the lymph nodes and other sites in the body, treatment is based on Chemotherapy and immunotherapy and may include biologic medications targeted at the altered genes.

Advantest – Oncotest provides the most up-to-date test battery available for Melanoma:

• Genetic testing for identifying increased inherited risk for developing the disease.
• Optimization of therapeutic response by finding molecular targets for tailored therapies.