Two Onc Docs
Localized Melanoma 2024 x Dr. Mike Atkins Part 1
May 27, 2024
Dr. Michael Atkins, a renowned expert and deputy director of the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, discusses the latest in localized melanoma treatment. Breakthroughs in immunotherapy and targeted therapies are highlighted, showcasing improved survival rates. He dives into the critical staging process, emphasizing tumor thickness and lymph node involvement. The conversation also covers the effectiveness of neoadjuvant therapies like Pembrolizumab and the potential of oncolytic viruses in melanoma treatment, offering a glimpse into future clinical trials.
21:16
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Quick takeaways
- Recent advancements in targeted therapies and immunotherapy have dramatically improved median survival rates for metastatic melanoma patients, exceeding five years.
- Identifying risk factors such as genetic predispositions and sun exposure is crucial for effective prevention and early detection of localized melanoma.
Deep dives
Evolution of Melanoma Treatment
The treatment landscape for melanoma has dramatically changed since the early 2010s, primarily due to advancements in targeted therapies and immunotherapy. Before 2011, the prognosis for patients with metastatic melanoma was dire, with a median survival of just six to nine months. However, with the introduction of BRAF MEK inhibitors and checkpoint inhibitors, the median survival has exceeded five years, allowing 50-70% of patients with metastatic disease to achieve remission. This shift has transformed oncology clinics into spaces where patients not only survive but thrive, sharing stories of their travels and experiences rather than facing bleak prognosis discussions.
