Molecular Mechanisms of Melanoma

There has been a rapid accumulation of knowledge regarding the altered molecular pathways in melanoma. With the development of target therapies such as vemurafenib and other therapies in clinical trials, melanomas may eventually be classified based on their altered molecular mechanisms. Knowledge of these emerging melanoma subtypes is not only testable on boards but also is important for potentially understanding the future direction of melanoma therapy. This article presents known altered molecular pathways in melanoma, focusing on information that may be tested on boards examinations.