Mechanisms of tumour vascularization in cutaneous malignant melanoma: clinical implications

Abstract

Malignant melanoma represents < 10% of all skin cancers but is responsible for the majority of skin-cancer-related deaths. Metastatic melanoma has historically been considered as one of the most therapeutically challenging malignancies. Fortunately, for the first time after decades of basic research and clinical investigation, new drugs have produced major clinical responses. Angiogenesis has been considered an important target for cancer treatment. Initial efforts have focused primarily on targeting endothelial and tumour-related vascular endothelial growth factor signalling. Here, we review different mechanisms of tumour vascularization described in melanoma and discuss the potential clinical implications.

Quantitative Imaging In Vivo of Functioning Lymphatic Vessels Around Human Melanoma and Benign Nevi

“…The results confirmed an increase in LD-hist around melanoma compared with matched control skin, in keeping with previous reports in small studies and large metaanalyses [17,25]. The results also revealed a raised lymphatic density around benign melanocytic lesions (moles), compared with control skin.…”

Melanomas Arising on Skin With Chronic Sun-Induced Damage Exhibit Low Degree of Angiogenesis and Lymphangiogenesis

“…13 Moreover, authors observed that chronic exposure to radiation produced a reduced inflammatory response against an acute challenge, as shown by the diminished synthesis capacity of PGE2 and TNFa, 13 both factors being involved in melanoma-associated angiogenesis. 7 The presence of solar elastosis in dermis is a marker of chronic sun exposure rather than acute UVB irradiation.…”

“…6 Several of these genetic alterations were also described to be involved in tumor-associated angiogenesis. 7 We performed a retrospective investigation aimed on evaluation of the differences in angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis between melanomas arising on skin with and without signs of chronic sun-induced damage.…”

Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Skin Explore Angiogenesis-Independent Mechanisms of Tumour Vascularization

“…However, in recent years, additional endothelial-sprouting-independent mechanisms have been described, such as vascular cooption, intussusceptive angiogenesis, mosaic vessels, vasculogenesis, and/or vasculogenic mimicry [3]. …”