CHARACTERIZATION OF CUTANEOUS MELANOMA (CM): a narrative review

Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer due to its metastatic potential, and its incidence has increased considerably in recent decades. Sun exposure to ultraviolet A and B cause DNA damage, mutations and induction of the melanomas.The focus here is an updated review on melanoma. Through early diagnostic detection of the malignant lesion, it is possible to initiate therapy in an early and curative way, increasing survival with a subsequent decrease in the overall mortality rate. Surgeries are the first treatment option, but chemotherapy/radiotherapyhave been alternative treatments for melanomas. Advances in immunotherapy and targeted therapy have changed treatment paradigms and improved the prognosis of late-stage disease.