The Role of Genetics in Malignant Melanoma: A Comprehensive Review.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-2026

Publication Title

The Surgical Clinics of North America

Abstract

Malignant melanoma represents a lethal cutaneous malignancy. This review article highlights somatic mutations as well as high- and moderate-penetrance germline genetic mutations frequently found in melanoma. BRAF and CDKN2A remain the most frequently identified somatic and germline mutations respectively; however, numerous others have been implicated including KRAS, c-KIT, CDK4, BAP1, TERT, POT1, ACD/TERF2IP and ATM. Approximately half of patients with familial melanoma syndrome do not have clearly identified or documented mutations. Thus, screening recommendations vary and polygenic risk scoring systems aid in personalized risk stratification and screening approaches. Collectively, this review synthesizes genetic insights to support precision-based clinical decision making.

Volume

106

Issue

4

First Page

571

Last Page

584

DOI

10.1016/j.suc.2026.03.010

ISSN

1558-3171

PubMed ID

42419313

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