Emerging prognostic biomarkers in advanced cutaneous melanoma: a literature update.
Gabriele RoccuzzoEleonora BongiovanniLuca TonellaValentina PalaSara MarchisioAlessia RicciRebecca SenettaLuca BerteroSimone RiberoEnrico BerrinoCaterina MarchiòAnna SapinoPietro QuaglinoPaola CassoniPublished in: Expert review of molecular diagnostics (2024)
While the field of prognostic biomarkers in melanoma appears promising, there are several complexities and limitations to address. The interdependence of clinical, histological, and molecular features requires accurate classification of different biomarker families. Correlation does not imply causation, and adjustments for confounding factors are often overlooked. In this scenario, large-scale studies based on high-quality clinical trial data can provide more reliable evidence. It is essential to avoid oversimplification by focusing on a single biomarker, as the interactions among multiple factors contribute to define the disease course and patient's outcome. Furthermore, implementing well-supported evidence in real-life settings can help advance prognostic biomarker research in melanoma.