ABSTRACT
Malignant melanoma can be broadly divided into three main types: cutaneous, uveal and mucosal melanoma. Each type of melanoma is distinct in terms of its molecular genetics and clinical behaviour. Individuals of Hispanic origin have an intermediate risk of developing malignant melanoma with the highest rates observed in Caucasians, Australia having the highest incidence of the disease. Mucosal melanoma is the rarest form of melanoma and represents less than 1.5% of all cases of malignant melanoma with an incidence of 2.6 cases per million in Europe. Somatic mutations in genes involved in cell proliferation and survival play a significant role in facilitating the malignant transformation of melanocytes. The incidence of malignant melanoma continues to rise with increasing numbers of young people being affected and primary prevention strategies for malignant melanoma are of the utmost importance. Vemurafenib and Dabrafenib have been shown to have activity within the central nervous system in melanoma patients.
