Melanoma Panel 1 Test Cost & Procedure

The Melanoma Panel is looking into 14 genes that are associated with a higher risk of getting melanoma. This test includes both well-known melanoma susceptibility genes and candidate genes with scant evidence of a link.

Explain melanoma:

Melanoma, which in Latin means "black tumour," is the most severe type of skin cancer. Skin cells called melanocytes are the origin of melanoma. The colouration of melanomas is frequently black or brown. Because treatment is more effective with early detection.

What symptoms indicate melanoma?

Melanoma signs can include moles, scaly patches, open sores, and raised lumps.

You can remember the signs that a skin lesion might be melanoma by using the American Academy of Dermatology's "ABCDE" memory aid: Asymmetry:

The two halves are distinct from one another.

The edges are not parallel.

• Colour: Brown, black, grey, red, and white are irregularly flecked in various tones.
• The spot is larger in diameter than an eraser on a pencil. (6.0 mm). If you notice any wounds that won't heal or strange moles, let your doctor know.

This test is for who?

Patients have a personal or family history of melanoma that may be inherited. Hereditary cancer may be suspected if it develops before the age of 50, if a person has more than one primary malignancy, or if several members of a family are affected. The occurrence of breast, colon, ovarian, pancreatic, or prostate cancer in a patient's clinical or family history, as well as the presence of more than one melanoma in first- or second-degree relatives, indicates that genetic testing for a hereditary condition is necessary.

This test is not validated to detect mosaicism below the threshold of 20% and is intended to identify people who have a germline pathogenic mutation. Tumour tissue shouldn't be given the order.

What advantages would there be for my patient?

About 45% of familial melanoma cases are thought to be caused by highly penetrant genes, with the remaining instances likely being influenced by lesser penetrant genes, environmental factors, or other risk factors.  Increased surveillance and preventative measures can help patients with inherited melanoma syndromes better manage their cancer risk. Future clinical care could potentially benefit from knowledge gained from candidate gene testing. Additionally, testing can be done on your patient's family members to assist determine their risk if an inherited vulnerability is discovered.