Current state of melanoma treatment – from conventional therapies to nanotechnology and beyond

Introduction and Objective.Melanoma is recognized as the most aggressive type of skin cancer, and its global incidence is rising.Early detection of melanoma is crucial, as it allows for curative surgical removal with clear margins based on the tumour's depth.However, managing advanced melanoma, particularly cases with metastasis, remains a significant clinical challenge, often leading to fatal outcomes.The aim of the review is to highlight the current knowledge of melanoma treatment strategies, with a focus on both conventional therapies and recent advancements, including immunotherapy and nanotechnology-based approaches.Review Methods.The literature review made use of databases including PubMed and Google Scholar, with the sources ranging from 2017-2024.Key words included primarily 'melanoma', 'melanoma treatment' and 'melanoma therapy'.Peerreviewed articles were included, both reviews and original research papers involving cell lines, animal models, and patient cohorts.Brief description of the state of knowledge.Treatment such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy face such challenges as resistance, leading to melanoma recurrence and progression, along with side-effects.Recent advancements focus on more targeted and personalised treatments.Targeted therapies and immunotherapies, particularly with immune checkpoint inhibitors, have shown considerable potential, although they also come with limitations.Hence, innovative approaches, including the use of nanotechnology and combination therapies, are being developed to further enhance melanoma treatment.Summary.The significant metastatic capacity of melanoma, the poor prognosis associated with its advanced stages, and the limitations of conventional therapies, emphasise the need for novel treatment strategies.