Expert Video - What is genetic screening for melanoma?

Melanoma expert Laura Ferris, MD, PhD, of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, explains screening to find genetic changes, or mutations, that can cause melanoma in the skin. This may include blood tests to look for oncogenes – genes that cause cancer – and non-functioning tumor suppressor genes, problems with the genes that help prevent cancer. Dr. Ferris explains that genetic screening can also include asking about a family history of skin cancer and considering how your genes for skin, hair, and eye color and past medical history make melanoma more or less likely.

  • Share with family and friends:

Click here to take our SURVEY
Your feedback is important to us! We will use your feedback to develop future areas of content about melanoma which will help other patients, caregivers and families.

Other Modules:

 

This educational activity has been developed by the Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF), and Mechanisms in Medicine Inc.

This activity is supported by independent educational grants from Bristol-Myers Squibb, Foundation Medicine, Genentech, Iovance Biotherapeutics, Merck, Natera, and Novartis.

Bristol-Myers Squibb
Foundation Medicine
Genentech
Iovance
Merk
Natera
Novartis

This website is part of the Animated Patient™ series developed by Mechanisms in Medicine Inc., to provide highly visual formats of learning for patients to improve their understanding, make informed decisions, and partner with their healthcare professionals for optimal outcomes.