Role of the Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor CDKN2A in Familial Melanoma

BACKGROUND: Approximately 8 to 12% of melanoma appears to be inherited in an autosomal dominant form. Although most early stage melanomas can be treated successfully by simple surgical excision, patients with advanced disease are rarely cured even with aggressive chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy. OBJECTIVE: There is now compelling evidence that germline mutations of the CDKN2A gene on chromosome 9p21 predispose to melanoma in a subset of melanoma-prone families. In this article the evidence for the role of CDKN2A in the genesis of familial melanoma is reviewed and the implications of genetic testing in families with this disease are discussed. CONCLUSION: The identification and subsequent surveillance of unaffected individuals who have a genetic predisposition to melanoma may lead to the detection of early (curable) melanomas and to a reduction in mortality.