Harnessing ctDNA in Advanced Melanoma: A Promising Tool for Informed Clinical Decisions

Abstract

Cutaneous melanoma, an aggressive malignancy, has undergone significant transformation in clinical management with the introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and targeted therapies. Current monitoring methods, such as imaging scans, present limitations, prompting exploration of alternative biomarkers. This review comprehensively explores the role of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in advanced melanoma, covering technical aspects, detection methods, and its prognostic and predictive value. Recent findings underscore ctDNA’s potential applications and implications in clinical practice. This review emphasizes the need for precise and dynamic biomarkers in melanoma care, positioning ctDNA as a promising blood-based tool for prognosis, treatment response, and resistance mechanisms. The technical nuances of ctDNA detection, association with melanoma mutations, and its role in guiding therapeutic decisions for immunotherapy and targeted therapy underscore its multifaceted utility, marking a paradigm shift in clinical decision-making and offering a promising trajectory for personalized and informed care in advanced melanoma.