Genetic Basis and Molecular Mechanisms of Uveal Melanoma Metastasis: A Focus on Prognosis

Carla Enrica Gallenga; Elena Franco; Ginevra Giovanna Adamo; Sara Silvia Violanti; Paolo Tassinari; Mauro Tognon; Paolo Perri

doi:10.3389/fonc.2022.828112

Genetic Basis and Molecular Mechanisms of Uveal Melanoma Metastasis: A Focus on Prognosis

Front Oncol. 2022 Apr 11:12:828112. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2022.828112. eCollection 2022.

Authors

Carla Enrica Gallenga¹, Elena Franco², Ginevra Giovanna Adamo³, Sara Silvia Violanti⁴, Paolo Tassinari³, Mauro Tognon¹, Paolo Perri⁵

Affiliations

¹ Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
² Department of Translational Medicine and for Romagna, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
³ Department of Specialized Surgery, Section of Ophthalmology, Sant'Anna University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy.
⁴ Department of Head and Neck, Section of Ophthalmology, San Paolo Hospital, Savona, Italy.
⁵ Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Section of Ophthalmology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.

Abstract

Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most frequently found primary intraocular tumor, although it accounts for only 5% of all melanomas. Despite novel systemic therapies, patient survival has remained poor. Indeed, almost half of UM patients develop metastases from micro-metastases which were undetectable at diagnosis. Genetic analysis is crucial for metastatic risk prediction, as well as for patient management and follow-up. Several prognostic parameters have been explored, including tumor location, basal dimension and thickness, histopathologic cell type, vascular mimicry patterns, and infiltrating lymphocytes. Herein, the Authors review the available literature concerning cytogenetic prognostic markers and biochemical pathways correlated to UM metastasis development.

Keywords: genetic analyses; metastasis; molecular mechanism; prognostic markers; uveal melanoma (UM).

Publication types

Review