Mutation rates in main tumour driver genes predict prognosis in patients with superficial spreading or nodular primary melanoma: results from the CARAMEL study by the Italian Melanoma Intergroup (IMI)

Experimental Hematology and Oncology 2026 Open access

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Authors: Maria Cristina Sini, Jerry Polesel, Sara Simi, Antonella Manca, Antonio Cossu, Giovanni Battista Maestrale, Daniela Massi, Giuseppe Palmieri, Maria Antonietta Pizzichetta, The CARAMEL Study Group, Caterina Pinzani, Vincenzo Canzonieri
+8 more Stefano Astorino, Paola Pasquini, Maria Teresa Corradin, Sandro Sulfaro, Maurizio Lombardo, Michele Paolo Cerati, Giovanna Moretti, Marisa Falduto
DOI: 10.1186/s40164-026-00750-y
Cited by: 0
References: 15

Abstract

Superficial spreading melanoma (SSM) and nodular melanoma (NM) are the two histotypes that account for most cutaneous primary melanomas. We evaluated the mutational status for the genes underlying melanomagenesis among a series of SSMs and NMs from different Italian geographical areas. An increased number of mutated melanoma-driver genes was found to occur in both histological subtypes, with no specific mutational pattern distinctive for SSM and NM lesions, being significantly associated to shorter progression-free survival and poorer overall survival.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Cutaneous Melanoma Detection and Management Melanoma and MAPK Pathways Cancer Immunotherapy and Biomarkers

Publication details

Journal / source
Experimental Hematology and Oncology
Volume
15
Issue
1
Pages
17–17
Publication date
6 February 2026
Language
EN