Identifying BRAF and KIT mutations in melanoma. (April 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Takata, Minoru
• Is Part Of: Expert review of dermatology. Volume 8:Number 2(2013)
• Page Start: 171
• Page End: 176
• Publication Date: 2013-04
• Subjects: Dermatology -- Periodicals; 616.5005
• DOI: 10.1586/edm.12.78
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1746-9872

Abstract

<abstract> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p>Approximately 50% of melanomas harbor an activating mutation in codon 600 of the <italic>BRAF</italic> gene, while <italic>KIT</italic> mutations are found in 10–20% of acral and mucosal melanomas and melanomas on chronically sun-damaged skin. Because of the remarkable efficacy of oral kinase inhibitors, such as vemurafenib and imatinib, for melanomas harboring mutations in <italic>BRAF</italic> and <italic>KIT</italic> genes, molecular testing identifying mutations in these oncogenes is becoming important in patients with advanced melanoma. Since standardized mutation testing for <italic>BRAF</italic> and <italic>KIT</italic> is not currently available, the doctors should know the strengths and limitations of different testing procedures. Because of the intertumor heterogeneity of <italic>BRAF</italic> and <italic>KIT</italic> mutations, isolation and genotyping of circulating melanoma cells may provide vital information for optimal patient care.</p> </abstract>