Malignant melanoma in organ transplant recipients: incidence, outcomes, and management strategies: a review of literature

Dermatol Ther. 2016 Jan-Feb;29(1):64-8. doi: 10.1111/dth.12276. Epub 2015 Oct 13.

Abstract

Malignant melanoma is considered to be an immunogenic tumor, which is expected to change its behaviour in the field of immunosuppression. Although the incidence of melanoma in organ transplant recipients is increased to a smaller degree than in non-melanoma skin cancer, its potential morbidity and mortality has to be considered in the posttransplant care. The aim of this review is to investigate the relationship between melanoma and immunosuppression and to discuss management strategies for different melanoma scenarios in pre-transplant as well as posttransplant period.

Keywords: immunosuppression; malignant melanoma; prognosis; therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Donor Selection
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Incidence
  • Melanoma / diagnosis
  • Melanoma / epidemiology*
  • Melanoma / immunology
  • Melanoma / therapy*
  • Organ Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Skin Neoplasms / epidemiology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / immunology
  • Skin Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Time Factors
  • Tissue Donors
  • Transplant Recipients*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents