Pathophysiology roles and translational opportunities of miRNAs in cutaneous melanoma

Melanoma is a malignancy of melanocytes, pigment-producing cells that are predominantly located in the skin. Melanoma accounts for 3%-5% of all cutaneous cancers but determines approximately 75% of all skin cancer deaths. Cutaneous melanoma (CM) affects principally fair-skinned populations, with variable incidence attributable to latitude and differences in sun exposure. The geriatric population is principally affected by this tumor and the median age at diagnosis is 65 years, but this neoplasm is also frequently diagnosed in adolescent and young adult populations. Melanoma incidence increases linearly starting from the age of 25 years until 50. Melanoma affects women and men indifferently, but men are generally more affected. The incidence rates in the world are 3.5% for men and 2.9% for women. When age is considered, adolescent and young adult women are more susceptible to melanoma than men. However, after the age of 40, the rates reverse, and melanoma incidence among men is greater than in women.