Emerging Biomarkers in Cutaneous Melanoma.

Earlier identification of aggressive melanoma remains a goal in the field of melanoma research. With new targeted and immune therapies that have revolutionized the care of patients with melanoma, the ability to predict progression and monitor or predict response to therapy has become the new focus of research into biomarkers in melanoma. In this review, promising biomarkers are highlighted. These biomarkers have been used to diagnose melanoma as well as predict progression to advanced disease and response to therapy. The biomarkers take various forms, including protein expression at the level of tissue, genetic mutations of cancer cells, and detection of circulating DNA. First, a brief description is provided about the conventional tissue markers used to stage melanoma, including tumor depth. Next, protein biomarkers, which provide both diagnostic and prognostic information, are described. This is followed by a discussion of important genetic mutations, microRNA, and epigenetic modifications that can provide therapeutic and prognostic material. Finally, emerging serologic biomarkers are reviewed, including circulating melanoma cells and exosomes. Overall the goal is to identify biomarkers that aid in the earlier identification and improved treatment of aggressive melanoma.

On-the-Go Training: Downloadable Modules to Train Medical Students to Care for Adult Female Sexual Assault Survivors.

Introduction: Every medical provider encounters patients who have experienced sexual assault, and a patient's interaction with the medical system can impact long-term outcomes. Training to provide appropriate, compassionate care for this population is lacking in most medical school curricula. This educational resource contains three downloadable modules to train medical students in providing improved care for adult female survivors of sexual assault so students can feel more confident and empowered in caring for this population. Methods: The modules are composed of an informational video on initial medical management, a patient interview simulation video, and a set of audio interviews on suggestions for practice. Interdisciplinary experts assisted in the modules' development. Associated materials include a 10 question pre- and posttest of medical knowledge, with additional survey questions to assess student attitudes and satisfaction outcomes. Results: A cohort of 32 medical student volunteers from all class years tested the modules. Overall, student scores improved 20% (95% confidence interval, 16%-23%) from pre- to posttest. Students reported that their comfort in caring for an adult female sexual assault survivor increased after completion of the modules (p = .025). On the whole, students reported on the postsurvey that the modules enhanced their education, improved their comfort, and were appropriate for their level of education. Discussion: These modules can enrich an undergraduate medical curriculum in a currently underaddressed topic, the care of female survivors of sexual assault. Empowering and educating students to care for this patient population can result in improved health outcomes.