Melanoma Insights features interviews with leading melanoma specialists who translate the latest research and best practice into the everyday clinic setting. Developed by Melanoma Institute Australia, this series is for multidisciplinary healthcare professionals who want to be across the latest deve…
Neoadjuvant immunotherapy is transforming patient care in the field of melanoma. New research recently presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting is set to change melanoma treatment protocols globally, and likely to have significant impact on treatment for other cancers too. In this podcast, A/Prof Matt Carlino leads an engaging discussion with MIA's Prof Georgina Long AO, A/Prof Alex Menzies and A/Prof Alex van Akkooi as they discuss the pivotal results from the NADINA trial and how this will undoubtedly change the standard of care for Stage III melanoma patients. They also discuss the practical implications for implementing this treatment regime, including relevant patient populations, toxicity, impacts for surgery and future directions. This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Surgical Oncologists, Pathologists, Researchers, GPs Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals. It is produced by Melanoma Institute Australia. SPEAKERS A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals | Clinical Associate Professor, The University of Sydney Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney PUBLICATIONS Blank C, Lucas MW, Scolyer RA, et al. Neoadjuvant Nivolumab and Ipilimumab in Resectable Stage III Melanoma. N Engl J Med 2024. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2402604 Patel SP, Othus M, Chen Y, et al. Neoadjuvant–Adjuvant or Adjuvant-Only Pembrolizumab in Advanced Melanoma. N Engl J Med 2023;388:813-823. FURTHER EDUCATION Podcast: Neoadjuvant immunotherapy: Revolutionising melanoma treatment Video: The critical role of standardised pathological assessment in neoadjuvant therapy for melanoma: A guide for Pathologists Conference: 2024 Australasian Melanoma Conference Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (2024) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.
Biomarkers are revolutionising our understanding of melanoma by providing valuable information about a patient's unique tumour characteristics which can help guide clinical decision making. In this podcast, A/Prof Alex Menzies leads a multidisciplinary discussion on the current state of biomarker application and future prospects of biomarkers in melanoma care. They discuss emerging liquid biomarkers, such as ctDNA, MIA's personalised immunotherapy platform that is trying to predict the likelihood of response and select patients for treatment, and the role of the gut microbiome as a potential biomarker in response and toxicity. This podcast from Melanoma Institute Australia is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Surgical Oncologists, Researchers, GPs and other healthcare professionals. LINKS: 2024 Australasian Melanoma Conference Melanoma Risk Prediction Tools Melanoma Education Portal SPEAKERS A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney A/Prof Ines Silva - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Blacktown Hospital | Research Scientist, Melanoma Institute Australia and The University of Sydney Prof Helen Rizos - Cancer Cell Biologist and Research Lead in the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences at Macquarie University | Faculty Member, Melanoma Institute Australia A/Prof James Wilmott - Senior Scientist, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney| Faculty Member, Melanoma Institute Australia Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (April 2024) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, BMS and HEINE.
Mucosal melanoma is a rare and aggressive form of melanoma that arises from the mucous membrane. In this podcast, we focus on mucosal melanoma of the head and neck. Led by A/Prof Sydney Ch'ng, our multidisciplinary experts discuss how it differs from cutaneous melanoma, staging of mucosal melanoma, management of the disease and future treatments. The discussion concludes with a case study to summarise key learnings. This podcast is suitable for Plastic Surgeons, Surgical Oncologists, Dermatologists, Medical Oncologists, Pathologists, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals. SPEAKERS A/Prof Sydney Ch'ng - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon and Head & Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Associate Professor of Surgery, The University of Sydney Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney A/Prof Raewyn Campbell - Rhinologist and Anterior Skull Base Surgeon |Associate Professor, Macquarie University Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Prof Angela Hong - Radiation Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia | Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (March 2024) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, BMS and HEINE.
Diagnostic uncertainty in the context of cutaneous melanoma can have significant impact on patient care. In this podcast, our multidisciplinary experts, led by Dr Adrian Quek, discuss the challenges faced in classifying melanocytic lesions that fall into a diagnostic grey area, and explore the terminology, evolving classifications and the impact of diagnostic uncertainty on patient outcomes. From molecular changes to clinical perspectives, this engaging discussion provides a comprehensive exploration of the complexities surrounding borderline lesions, and emphasises the need for experienced multidisciplinary professionals in ensuring accurate diagnoses and ideal management. This podcast is suitable for Pathologists, Dermatologists, Surgeons, Oncologists, GPs and other healthcare professionals. RESOURCES Video: How to diagnose borderline cutaneous melanocytic lesions Paper: Yeh, I. New and evolving concepts of melanocytic nevi and melanocytomas. Modern Pathology. 2020;33:1-14. Nevus/Melanocytoma/Melanoma: An Emerging Paradigm for Classification of Melanocytic Neoplasms?. Arch Pathol Lab Med. 2011;135(3): 300–306. SPEAKERS Dr Adrian Quek - Skin Cancer GP, Melanoma Institute Australia and Chatswood Skin Cancer Clinic A/Prof Robyn Saw - General Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Head of Department in Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Associate Professor in Surgery, The University of Sydney Prof H. Peter Soyer - Chair in Dermatology and Director of the Dermatology Research Centre, The University of Queensland Dr Andrew Colebatch - Staff Specialist in Anatomical Pathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (November 2023) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE. For more clinical education from MIA, sign up to the Melanoma Education Portal (melanomaeducation.org.au).
With the advent of effective medical therapies for melanoma, a pertinent question has arisen: When should we scan our patients? In this podcast, our multidisciplinary experts, led by A/Prof Sydney Ch'ng, discuss the balance of whether we should be more aggressive in our pursuit of identifying potential metastases or exercise caution to avoid unnecessary scans, radiation exposure and patient anxiety. The discussion concludes with a case study to summarise key learnings. This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Oncologists, Surgeons, GPs, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals. RESOURCES Melanoma Risk Prediction Tools SPEAKERS A/Prof Sydney Ch'ng - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon and Head & Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia, Associate Professor of Surgery, The University of Sydney A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney Dr Edward Hsiao - Radiologist and Nuclear Medicine Specialist, Mater Imaging Dr Kevin London - Nuclear Medicine Specialist, The Children's Hospital at Westmead | Clinical Senior Lecturer, The University of Sydney Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (September 2023) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. For more practice-changing education, visit our Melanoma Education Portal. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.
Sentinel node biopsy (SNB) plays a key role in assessing the prognosis of melanomas. In this fireside chat from our new SNB Training Program (Sentinel Node Biopsy: From guidelines to practice), MIA's Prof Georgina Long AO, Prof John Thompson AO and A/Prof Sydney Ch'ng discuss: the history of SNB in the management of melanoma its current role in the stratification of patients into those who may benefit from adjuvant therapies verses those for whom active surveillance is more appropriate other potential benefits of SNB, including the likelihood of SNB itself reducing the risk of nodal recurrence. This podcast is suitable for Surgeons, Medical Oncologists, General Practitioners and other healthcare professionals. SPEAKERS A/Prof Sydney Ch'ng - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon and Head & Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Associate Professor of Surgery, The University of Sydney Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney Prof John Thompson AO - Emeritus Professor of Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, The University of Sydney | Senior Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (July 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.
Our latest podcast explores the innovative approach of neoadjuvant immunotherapy - administering checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy before the surgical removal of melanoma. This promising approach is creating a buzz among multidisciplinary clinicians and researchers globally as the potential benefits for melanoma patients are being realised. Although neoadjuvant therapy is well established in oncology, using immunotherapy in melanoma has revolutionised patient outcomes through significant improvements in overall survival rates. In this engaging podcast, MIA's Prof Georgina Long AO leads a discussion with multidisciplinary world leaders in the neoadjuvant space to discuss: the benefits of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy the role of the pathologist in the assessment of neoadjuvant tissue the impact of surgical decision-making as neoadjuvant becomes mainstay treatment options for treatment-refractory patients the role of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy in non-melanoma skin cancer. The discussion concludes with case studies to summarise key learnings. This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Oncologists, Surgeons, Pathologists, Dermatologists, GPs, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals. SPEAKERS: Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney Prof Richard Scolyer AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Senior Staff Specialist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney KEY CLINICAL TRIALS SWOG PRADO OpACIN-neo NADINA FURTHER EDUCATION The critical role of standardised pathological assessment in neoadjuvant therapy for melanoma: A guide for Pathologists Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (February 2023) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.
Lentigo maligna – a subtype of in situ melanoma – presents diagnostic and treatment challenges for clinicians. In this podcast, Dr Michael Rtshiladze leads a multidisciplinary discussion to unravel our understanding of the pathology, diagnosis and management of lentigo maligna, including: clinical and histological presentation tools to diagnose and monitor lesions the impact of different types of biopsies the importance of mapping the extent of lesions the challenge of surgical management in cosmetically sensitive areas the role of radiation therapy and topical treatments when to refer your patient. The discussion concludes with a case study to summarise key learnings. This podcast is suitable for Plastic Surgeons, General Surgeons, Dermatologists, Oncologists, Pathologists, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals. SPEAKERS Dr Michael Rtshiladze - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The Prince of Wales Hospital, St George Hospital and Sydney Children's Hospital Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Prof Pascale Guitera - Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute Australia | Director, Sydney Melanoma Diagnostic Centre at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Professorial Research Fellow, The University of Sydney Prof Angela Hong - Radiation Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia | Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney RESOURCE AND REFERENCE Lentigo Maligna Patient Information Brochure Crouch G, Sinha S, Lo S, Saw RPM, Lee KK, Stretch J, Shannon K, Guitera P, Scolyer RA, Thompson JF & Ch'ng S. Clinical outcomes following surgical treatment of lentigo maligna of the head and neck. Eur J Surg Oncol. 2021 May;47(5):1145-1151. Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (December 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.
Despite recent advances in management of primary uveal melanoma, more than half of patients develop metastatic disease – often with poor outcomes. New therapeutic approaches to metastatic disease are vital. In this podcast, A/Prof Matteo Carlino interviews fellow Medical Oncologist Prof Georgina Long AO and Ophthalmologist A/Prof Max Conway on our latest understanding of the diagnosis and management of early and advanced uveal melanoma, including: presentation and diagnostic process current treatment options and rationale for local therapy in early melanoma determining which patients are suitable for screening for metastatic disease developing a surveillance plan based on risk of recurrence the different activity of systemic therapy in uveal versus cutaneous melanoma importance of the multidisciplinary team activity of tebentafusp in advanced uveal melanoma the current clinical trial landscape. This podcast is suitable for Oncologists, Ophthalmologists, GPs, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals. SPEAKERS A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals Clinical Associate Professor, The University of Sydney Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney A/Prof Max Conway - Ophthalmologist, Save Sight Institute, Sydney Eye Hospital and The University of Sydney RESOURCES Early Ocular Melanoma Patient Information Brochure Advanced Ocular Melanoma Patient Information Brochure Melanoma Education Portal Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (November 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, BMS, Novartis and HEINE.
Treating clinicians rely on pathology to help diagnose and stage their patient which fundamentally determines the treatment management plan. Therefore, it is incredibly important to get it right in the first place. In this engaging podcast aimed at GPs, our multidisciplinary experts discuss: Why can it be challenging to get the pathology right? What clinical information is important to include on the pathology request form? How is the pathology report structured? How is the specimen processed? What biopsy is key to maximising the diagnostic and prognostic interpretation of the pathology? Are partial biopsies ever appropriate? What implications does the type of biopsy have for subsequent surgery? When does a GP need to refer their patient? The discussion is concluded with two case studies to summarise key learnings. This podcast is suitable for GPs, Dermatologists, Surgeons, Oncologists, Pathologists and other healthcare professionals. SPEAKERS Dr Adrian Quek - Skin Cancer GP, Melanoma Institute Australia and The Chatswood Skin Cancer Clinic Dr Alison Potter - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Dr Nigel Maher - McMurtrie Cancer Pathology Fellow, Melanoma Institute Australia A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney Dr Niamh-Anna O'Sullivan - Specialist Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute Australia HOST Danielle Fischer - Education Program Manager, Melanoma Institute Australia Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (June 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. For more practice-changing education, visit our Melanoma Education Portal. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from: MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis and HEINE.
The role of pathologist in the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma is pivotal to optimal patient care. With so many disciplines relying on the pathologist for accurate diagnoses and critical pathological information, we decided to reach out to our clinical melanoma community to ask them for their critical pathology questions.In this podcast, Prof John Thompson AO and Prof Fergal Moloney pick at the brain of the world's leading melanoma Pathologist, Prof Richard Scolyer AO, as they discuss:The clinical information needed to aid diagnosisThe role of artificial intelligence and computing in pathologyOverdiagnosis of melanomaThe problem of partial biopsiesDiagnosing borderline lesionsWhat is a melanocytoma and how should it be managedWhat is an irritated naevusDysplastic naevi and appropriate managementThis podcast is suitable for GPs, Dermatologists, Surgeons, Oncologists, Pathologists and other healthcare professionals.SPEAKERSProf Richard Scolyer AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Senior Staff Specialist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Clinical Professor, The University of SydneyProf John Thompson AO - Emeritus Professor of Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, The University of Sydney | Member, Melanoma Institute AustraliaProf Fergal Moloney - Consultant Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Mater Misericordiae University Hospital | Clinical Professor, University College, DublinPlease note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (June 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.For more practice-changing education, visit our Melanoma Education Portal.MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from: MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis and HEINE.
Cancer drugs have rapidly evolved in the last decade. Alongside the significant benefits are new toxicity profiles that clinicians need to be aware of and manage.In this podcast, A/Prof Carlino interviews fellow Medical Oncologist Prof Georgina Long AO on the adverse events/toxicities associated with targeted therapies (combination BRAF/MEK inhibitors) and immunotherapies (anti-PD-1, anti-LAG-3 and anti-CTLA-4), particularly in melanoma, and how they should be managed.Some key points brought up during this deep dive in toxicity:With targeted therapies, cessation of treatment usually reverses the toxicity.Immunotherapy toxicities are driven by the immune system rather than the drugs themselves, and as such, cessation of treatment does not automatically resolve toxicity. Most toxicities need active treatment to resolve.It is crucial to educate your patients regarding temporarily ceasing therapy in response to toxicity, particularly fever.It is important to recognise that immunotherapy toxicity is not necessarily treated the same as the autoimmune disease it may mimic.Understanding the patient's history is crucial to identify if symptoms are a direct result of treatment.Ceasing immunotherapy treatment in the setting of toxicities does not mean you lose efficacy.It is important to understand the risk versus benefit when assessing your patient for re-challenge with immunotherapy after a toxicity.Medical Oncologists should have a referral network of experts for managing your patient's toxicities.This podcast is suitable for Oncologists, Emergency Medicine Physicians, GPs, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals.SPEAKERSProf Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of SydneyA/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals Clinical Associate Professor, The University of SydneyPlease note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (May 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from: MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis and HEINE.
The field of melanoma has experienced a paradigm shift in recent years, with advancements in both diagnosis and management driving improved patient outcomes. Through the power of research, day-to-day practice continues to be transformed.In this lively podcast, two of Australia's leading melanoma experts Prof Richard Scolyer AO and Prof Georgina Long AO discuss:how melanoma management has transformed in the last decadethe challenge of diagnosing melanoma for clinicians and pathologists, and practical ways to help make accurate assessmentsthe importance of stagingwhy sentinel node biopsies are importanthow multidisciplinary care enhances patient outcomesemerging evidence on neoadjuvant treatment and how this will change the way melanoma is managedthe challenge of supportive care and where to find help.In this practical discussion, resources and further education for deeper dives into specific topics are also mentioned, with links below.This podcast is suitable for oncologists, surgeons, dermatologists, skin cancer GPs, GPs, nurses and other healthcare professionals.SPEAKERSProf Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of SydneyProf Richard Scolyer AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Senior Staff Specialist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Clinical Professor, The University of SydneyDanielle Fischer - Education Program Manager, Melanoma Institute AustraliaLINKS TO RESOURCESMelanoma Risk Prediction ToolsProf John Thompson's presentation: Update on melanoma stagingOrder or download a pocket-sized Melanoma Staging CardProf Richard Scolyer's presentation: Melanoma near misses: Clues to diagnosisDermoscopy module: Techniques in melanoma assessmentInteractive game: DermChallenge: Management.Debate: To shave or not to shave when biopsying melanomaPodcast: Multidisciplinary management of primary melanomaPresentation by Dr Rob Rawson and Dr Michael Rtshiladze: The melanoma pathology report and its impact on clinical managementWiki melanoma guidelines: Clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and management of melanomaInteractive module: The current role of sentinel node biopsy in the management of melanomaDebate: The role of sentinel node biopsy is overstated in melanomaSNB Melanoma Risk CalculatorPresentation by A/Prof Robyn Saw and Dr Tom Pennington: Optimal initial management of melanoma in primary care settingsPresentation by Prof Georgina Long: Neoadjuvant therapy in melanoma: The perfect modelPodcast: Neoadjuvant therapy in melanoma with Georgina LongPodcast: The complexities of adjuvant therapy in melanomaPodcast: Management of brain metastases in melanomaHospital Support Services DirectoryMelanoma Support Service DirectoryPatient resources: Patient guides and video for early stage patients
Managing in-transit melanoma can be challenging, and it presents and progresses as a heterogeneous disease. Multidisciplinary care is recommended for this complex disease to determine the optimal outcome for the patient.In this engaging podcast, our multidisciplinary expert panel – featuring a Dermatologist, Surgeon and Medical Oncologist – discuss:the clinical presentation of in-transit melanomaimportance of biopsy and imaginglocal therapy options including surgical resection, topical diphencyprone, radiotherapy, injectable agents and isolated limb infusionsystemic therapy options in the adjuvant and unresectable settings.In addition, the panel reviews a case study to put learnings into practice.This podcast is suitable for Surgeons, Medical Oncologists, Dermatologists, Skin Cancer GPs, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals.Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (October 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.SPEAKERSA/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals | Clinical Associate Professor, The University of SydneyA/Prof Robyn Saw - General Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Associate Professor in Surgery, The University of Sydney | Head of Department, Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred HospitalProf Diona Damian - Professor of Dermatology, The University of Sydney | Clinical Academic, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital |Associate, Melanoma Institute Australia
Melanoma has many mimics, making detection a challenge. However, early detection and appropriate management of melanoma is crucial to ensuring a patient has the best chance of survival.In this podcast, our multidisciplinary panel discuss:the clinical presentation of melanomatips to help make a clinical diagnosisunderstanding the histological features for diagnosishow to know when to biopsywhich biopsy is bestramifications of subtotal biopsieswho requires a sentinel node assessment and what does that involvewhat is involved in a wide local excision.In addition, the panel reviews a case study to put learnings into practice.This podcast is suitable for Dermatologists, Skin Cancer GPs, GPs, Surgeons, Nurses and other healthcare professionals.SPEAKERS:Dr Adrian Quek - Skin Cancer GP, Melanoma Institute Australia and The Chatswood Skin Cancer ClinicA/Prof Jonathan Stretch AM - Surgical Oncologist and Deputy Medical Director, Melanoma Institute AustraliaDr Bruna Gouveia - Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute AustraliaPlease note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (May 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.
Due to the highly aggressive nature of Merkel cell carcinoma, accurate and timely diagnosis is essential to ensure optimal management. Although our understanding of the biology of the disease has advanced significantly in recent years, a clinical conundrum still exists regarding the ideal therapeutic strategy for each patient.In this podcast, our multidisciplinary panel discuss:the pathology of Merkel cell carcinomadifferential diagnosesclinical presentationthe role of surgery and its importance in diagnosis, staging and salvagehow radiotherapy is used in the definitive and adjuvant settingsthe role of systemic therapyemerging therapies and the importance of clinical trials.In addition, the panel reviews two case studies to put learnings into practice.This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Surgeons, Dermatologists, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals.Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (March 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.SPEAKERS:Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred HospitalDr Kerwin Shannon - Surgical Oncologist and Head and Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia and Chris O’Brien LifehouseProf Angela Hong - Radiation Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia |Clinical Professor, The University of SydneyDr Ines Silva - Medical Oncologist and Researcher, Melanoma Institute Australia | Fellow, Westmead Hospital
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) are the most common forms of non-melanoma skin cancers. They have a wide clinical and pathological presentation, and early detection and treatment is vital to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with these diseases.In this podcast, our multidisciplinary panel discuss:the pathology and aetiology of SCCs and BCCswhen a GP should refer their patientthe role of surgerywhen radiotherapy is indicated in the definitive and adjuvant settinghow systemic therapy can play a role in advanced disease.In addition, the panel review two cases to solidify the learnings.This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Surgeons, Dermatologists, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals.Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (March 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.SPEAKERS:Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred HospitalDr Kerwin Shannon - Surgical Oncologist and Head and Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia and Chris O’Brien LifehouseProf Angela Hong - Radiation Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia |Clinical Professor, The University of SydneyDr Ines Silva - Medical Oncologist and Researcher, Melanoma Institute Australia | Fellow, Westmead Hospital
The success of immunotherapy and targeted therapy in the treatment of advanced melanoma has led to the same therapies being used in the adjuvant setting to reduce the risk of recurrence.In this podcast, A/Prof Matteo Carlino interviews fellow Medical Oncologist A/Prof Alexander Menzies on the evidence for adjuvant therapy to guide clinical decision-making. Understanding the complexities of adjuvant therapy is key to identifying and managing patients suitable for this treatment.Topics covered in this discussion include:Weighing up the risk-benefit ratio in the use of adjuvant therapyPatient populations who are not suitable for adjuvant therapyTreating BRAF-mutant patients – which option is best?Adjuvant treatment for mucosal melanomaFollow-up imaging after adjuvant therapy to identify recurrence and toxicitiesThe diminished role of completion lymph node dissectionThe role of adjuvant radiotherapyAdjuvant therapy in Stage II melanomaNeoadjuvant therapyManagement of recurrences on or after adjuvant therapyThis podcast is suitable for Oncologists, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals.Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (Feb 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.SPEAKERS:A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of SydneyA/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals Clinical Associate Professor, The University of Sydney
In the rapidly evolving treatment landscape for advanced melanoma, medical oncologists now have a suite of treatments to choose from for their patients. In this engaging podcast, A/Prof Menzies interviews fellow Medical Oncologist A/Prof Carlino on the rationale behind their clinical decision making when it comes to choosing the most appropriate therapy for their patients, including sequencing and combination therapies. They also take a deeper dive into treatment toxicities and how to manage them for targeted and immune therapies.This podcast is suitable for Oncologists, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals.
Melanoma is one of the most common human malignancies, however we often don’t often think of it as a disease that occurs in children. Although exceedingly rare, clinicians do need to be aware of paediatric melanoma and have a high level of suspicion for these lesions as they are often diagnosed late.In this podcast, a Surgeon, Dermatologist and Medical Oncologist discuss how melanoma presents in children and adolescents, and how this differs from the adult setting. They also discuss how melanoma should be managed in these patients and discuss two patient case studies.This podcast is suitable for Surgeons, Dermatologists, Medical Oncologists, GPs and other healthcare professionals.
In the evolving treatment landscape of melanoma, it is important for GPs and Dermatologists to be confident in managing or knowing when to refer their melanoma patients. In this podcast, Surgeon A/Prof Robyn Saw, Dermatologist Dr Annika Smith and Skin Cancer GP Dr Adrian Quek discuss the ideal biopsy for a melanoma diagnosis, provides an overview of management of early stage disease, outlines the role of sentinel lymph node biopsy and discusses which patients need referral to a specialist melanoma clinic.
In the last decade, the treatment landscape for melanoma has been transformative for patients with advanced disease. Although managed primarily by medical oncologists, it is important for GPs to be across which treatments are available for their patients as they are often the first point of contact when a patient becomes unwell. In this podcast, Medical Oncologist Professor Georgina Long discusses how systemic therapy is used in the treatment of advanced melanoma, and how a GP can identify and manage toxicities in patients being treated with targeted or immunotherapies.This podcast is suitable for GPs, Skin Cancer GPs, nurses and other healthcare professionals.
Thanks to advancements in therapy, we are now seeing large numbers of patients surviving advanced melanoma, and with that comes well-being and psychological challenges that need to be addressed. Clinicians need to be cognisant of their patients' needs beyond the medical side.Dietitian Jane Freeman, Psychologist Michelle Davey and Physiotherapist Carol Morris discuss the role that food, mood and movement has in the holistic approach to treating melanoma patients and survivors, and the role that you - as a clinician - can play.This podcast is suitable for oncologists, GPs, oncology nurses and other healthcare practitioners.
The management of melanoma patients with brain metastases has changed rapidly in the last five years, and patients now have much-improved survival rates. Brain metastases are no longer a death sentence and many people can have control of their disease with quality life.In this podcast, Medical Oncologist A/Prof Alex Menzies, Neurosurgeon Dr Brindha Shivalingam and Radiation Oncologist Prof Angela Hong discuss the contemporary multidisciplinary management of patients with brain metastases and through examining two case studies, they discern the factors that need to be considered for deciding best practice.This podcast is suitable for medical oncologists, rural oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons (including neurosurgeons), and may also be of interest to GPs, oncology nurses and other healthcare practitioners.
Advancements made in medical oncology in the metastatic setting are now being used to benefit melanoma patients with Stage III disease. In this podcast, Medical Oncologist A/Prof Menzies is interviewed by A/Prof Carlino on how adjuvant (postoperative) therapy is being used in melanoma to eradicate occult metastatic disease to reduce the chances of recurrence. They discuss the role of immunotherapy and targeted therapy in the adjuvant setting, and mention how systemic therapy is being trialled in the neoadjuvant (preoperative) space.This podcast is suitable medical oncologists, surgical oncologists and radiation oncologists, and may also be of interest to GPs, oncology nurses and other healthcare practitioners.PRESENTERSA/Prof Alexander MenziesMedical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of SydneyA/Prof Matteo CarlinoMedical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals | Clinical Associate Professor, The University of SydneyLEARNING OUTCOMES1. Identify patients at high risk of recurrence or relapse following resection of melanoma.2. Recall the evidence supporting the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapy as adjuvant therapy in melanoma.3. Outline current recommendations for adjuvant therapy in melanoma.
The management of metastatic melanoma is a rapidly changing field, with major advances in recent years making a significant improvement on the outcomes of patients with Stage IV melanoma. In this podcast, Medical Oncologist A/Prof Carlino is interviewed by A/Prof Menzies on the developments in targeted therapies and immunotherapies that are currently available and how they are changing the outlook of patients with advanced melanoma, including patients with brain metastases. They also discuss common complications and how to manage them.This podcast is suitable for medical oncologists, surgical oncologists and radiation oncologists, and may also be of interest to GPs, oncology nurses and other healthcare practitioners.PRESENTERSA/Prof Matteo CarlinoMedical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals | Clinical Associate Professor, The University of SydneyA/Prof Alexander MenziesMedical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of SydneyLEARNING OUTCOMES1. Recall the systemic therapies currently available in Australia for the treatment of metastatic melanoma and their respective roles in treatment.2. Identify and manage potential complications of the systemic therapies used in the treatment of metastatic melanoma.3. Outline the role of systemic treatments in the treatment of brain metastases.