Alfred Health
A series of three publications reported studies investigating the prognosis associated with melanomas.
These three studies were:
The retrospective study looking at the influence of various primary tumour characteristics in patients diagnosed with stage IV melanoma between 2003 and 2012, who had a median follow-up of five years, found that primary tumour thickness was the most significant prognostic factor in stage IV melanoma.
In the second study, the presence of a BRAF mutation in patients with primary stage I-III cutaneous melanomas did not necessarily drive more rapid tumour growth but was associated with poorer melanoma-specific survival in patients with early-stage disease. In the third study, it was found that patients presenting with regional cutaneous metastases have a much better prognosis than those with distant cutaneous metastases.
Our research focuses on understanding primary melanoma, particularly to enhance detection and prevent deaths.
Biological differences between men and women can have an impact on the success of melanoma treatment, according to new research co-led by Alfred oncologist Miles Andrews.
A new resource provided to patients at the time of their advanced melanoma diagnosis is set to make things easier during what can be an overwhelming time.
Cancer care for Australians is set to be transformed as building starts on the Paula Fox Melanoma and Cancer Centre at The Alfred.