Melanoma

Treatment of Familial Melanoma

Familial cancer genetics screening and counseling are available for individuals at risk for melanoma. Clinical features that are worrisome for familial melanoma include:

• Two or more melanomas occurring in the same person
• Melanoma occurring in two or more members of the same family
• History of prior abnormal moles (atypical or dysplastic) in a person who develops a melanoma
• An abnormal mole in more than one generation of a family in which a family member has had melanoma
• Melanoma diagnosed prior to age 40
• Melanoma plus family history showing a high rate of cancers, especially at young ages

The genetic consultation will focus on cancer risk assessment, strategies for risk reduction, early detection techniques, education about familial melanoma and additional testing options as needed.