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3 Signs of Possible Melanoma

Melanoma is the rarest type of skin cancer, but among skin cancers it is the most fatal. It is important to keep an eye out for signs of possible trouble and see a physician immediately, with regular follow-up as indicated, if you have any question about the possibility of melanoma.

Pitt Researchers Identify Genes That May Help Improve Treatment for Melanoma Patients

The findings of a study, which were presented at this year’s annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), isolated eight genes that could help predict a melanoma patient’s response to treatment.  The researchers were from the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI).

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates in the cells that produce melanin.  It is the most serious type of skin cancer.  Approximately 70,000 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed this year.

The researchers examined the tumor tissues of 21 patients with metastatic melanoma.  The cases were classified into two groups:  those who responded to chemotherapy and those who did not.  Once the cases were divided, the data was analyzed using a mathematical tool to survey the genes to see if they could identify ones that could distinguish responders from nonresponders.

The results of the study show that genetic testing could someday allow doctors to identify which patients will respond to standard chemotherapy and which patients will not.

Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer Doubles the Risk for Lung, Colon and Breast Cancers

The Journal of National Cancer Institute reports that a study done at the Medical University of South Carolina shows that people who have nonmelanomanon-melanoma skin cancer are at double the risk to develop a subsequent cancer.  The increased risk of subsequent cancer is not only for melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, but also for lung cancer, colon cancer and breast cancer.  For prostate cancer the tend was for increased risk but the association was weaker and statistically insignificant.  Dr. Weinstock, chair of the skin cancer advisory committee  of the American Cancer Society has advised that people that have had skin cancers should make sure they are up to date on all screening tests for other cancers such as colonoscopies, fecal occult blood, mammograms and Pap smears.

Remember that the earlier cancer is found the better the outcome. If you were recently diagnosed with cancer and believe that your cancer should have been diagnosed earlier contact the attorneys and doctors at Berger & Lagnese. We will get your medical records and laboratory test results and have them reviewed by experts to determine if you have a medical malpractice case.  Our lawyers handle cases in Pittsburgh, Butler, Cranberry and in other cities and counties throughout the western half of Pennsylvania.

 

New Drug Treats Metastatic Skin Cancer

Learn more about a breakthrough drug more effective than chemotherapy in treating metastatic melanoma (skin cancer).