Melanoma & Skin Service Studies & Research Findings
Melanoma & Skin Service Studies & Research Findings - Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
| Current major studies include: |
| We are pleased to be a part of the Melbourne Melanoma Project, a tissue banking and database program with the potential to unlock the further molecular secrets of melanoma, and with significant potential to develop improved therapeutic strategies for management by identifying specific targets related to melanoma. We have expanded the range of local therapies to combat locoregional disease with the use of photodynamic and microwave therapies and focused laser along with the standards of surgery and radiotherapy for patients in whom progressive disease has a high impact on their daily lives and routines. A long neglected area has been the ulcerated and offensive lumps often associated with skin but also other cancers. Nurse Coordinator, Elizabeth Le Hunt, has led the development of a structured and appropriate wound management for these patients not only at the Peter Mac but also in a state-wide sense. The role of this program in educating other health services and providing vital relief to patients and their families is a significant step forward. |
| Research focus: The key area of interest in the last 12 months has been the arrival of Braf inhibitors onto the scene in melanoma. Our Unit has been involved in trials of this medication since its initial appearance in the clinical arena. Professor Grant McArthur is a leading investigator on this highly promising agent to combat melanoma in its more advanced stages. This work provides the strongest light yet for patients with progressive disease and we continue to be involved in first-line trials of this agent. Given our specialised nature, the radiotherapy team have been able to produce an excellent piece of work regarding merkel cell carcinoma with over 25 years of experience of this cancer at the Peter MacCallum. This is a rare but highly aggressive skin cancer and our experience here is one of the largest in the world. The ANZMTG/TROG trial in the role of lymph node basis irradiation in melanoma was a highlighted piece at this year’s ASCO conference. Mr Felix Behan and the plastic and reconstructive team have continued to educate widely around the country and internationally on the keystone flap method of closing the often disfiguring wounds resulting from cancer removal. This work is widely published and being taken up in centres around the world. |
| Highlights from 2009 / 2010 |
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