Kathleen M. Madden Provides an Overview of Targeted Therapies for Melanoma Patients

Kathleen M. Madden, MSN, FNP-BC, AOCNP®, APHN, from Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center at NYU Langone Medical Center, provides an overview of treatment of melanoma with new targeted therapies.

BRAF and MEK inhibitors have altered the treatment landscape for many patients with melanoma, Madden says. These agents were just approved in the last few years and Madden notes that 50% of patients with melanoma have a BRAF mutation.

There are, however, unique adverse event profiles with these therapies. The most common side effect she sees in patients treated with BRAF inhibitors are photosensitivity and other dermatologic side effects, such as the development of new skin cancer and rashes. With MEK inhibitors, some patients may need to be monitored for cardiac issues.

Overall, Madden points out, patients are tolerating these agents well and are responding nicely.