Risk Stratification for Melanoma Using the 31-Gene Expression Profile Test: A Case Report
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Keywords
31-GEP, melanoma, genetics, risk stratification, Skin Cancer
Abstract
Melanoma is the largest contributor to skin cancer related deaths in the United States. Histology and AJCC8 staging have been the primary means for risk stratification until the introduction of the 31-Gene Expression Profile (GEP) testing became available. This test individually stratifies a patient’s melanoma risk of recurrence. Without this molecular data, certain early-stage melanoma patients would not receive the more aggressive monitoring needed to minimize their risk. In this case we discuss a 49-year old female patient with a 0.6mm, non-ulcerated melanoma on her right lateral knee. The 31-GEP results showed a Class 1A, which allowed for standard treatment with wide local excision without needing more aggressive testing or imaging.
Since the patient has a past medical history of chronic hepatitis B, there could have been implications if immunotherapy was needed. This patient’s results show an ideal scenario for melanoma. The patient was given reassurance regarding her diagnosis having the lowest risk category.
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