IBBIOTECH

Experiencia y futuro en biotecnología

Genetic analysis of Cutaneous Melanoma

Melanoma is a malignant tumour of the skin cells which in turn are dedicated to the production of melanin, the pigment that responsible for tanning. These tumours can quite quickly metastasize so that early detection is necessary in order to treat the tumour within time.

The annual incidence of these tumours is two cases per 100,000 population, but a growth in these rates has been detected in recent years. Before the beginning of summer and the increase in the periods and the intensity of UV radiation exposure, IB Biotech provides a new genetic test for predisposition to the development of melanoma or no. The test studies the mutations in genes which are responsible for development of these tumours.

The factors that cause the development of melanoma are genetic, environmental and inherited. In around 10% of patients with melanomas, there has been a prior case in the family. It is in these situations that it would be desirable to determine whether there is a family genetic predisposition to developing melanoma.

Knowledge of this predisposition would allow an increase in the periodic checking and early removal any suspicious areas.

Certain mutations in the CDKN2A gene is responsible for 20-40% of melanomas and can increase the likelihood of developing a tumour from 500 to 1000 times. Another gene, although with a lower incidence, is called CDK4. However chances may increase fourfold if this mutation is present in Redheads.

The main benefit of this test is to determine the risk of melanoma in order to take the necessary precautions and undergo medical monitoring and early prevention.