Mary Beth
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, USA
Title: Advances in prognostication for Uveal melanoma
Biography
Biography: Mary Beth
Abstract
Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults. Despite improvements in diagnosis and local tumor control using eye-sparing techniques, a commensurate improvement in mortality has not been observed. This current situation underlines the need for effective methods to predict and address metastatic disease. Prognostication for metastatic risk has evolved over the past two decades. Initial studies focused on clinical and histopathologic risk factors. More recently, prognostication has been based upon tumor cytogenetics and gene expression profiling. Our laboratory has extensive experience with FISH-based prognostication of uveal melanoma. Data regarding the use of this technique will be presented. As techniques have evolved, there are now commercially available assays for assessment of metastatic risk. As these technologies continue to improve the ultimate goals are to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms that impart metastatic potential and to develop targeted therapies.
