Methylation Markers in Cutaneous Melanoma: Unravelling the Potential Utility of Their Tracking by Liquid Biopsy

Simple Summary Malignant melanoma is the most lethal form of skin cancer. While new therapeutic approaches have improved survival in patients with metastatic melanoma, responses are rarely sustained due to the high degree of heterogeneity at the inter- and intra-metastatic levels. The development of reliable biomarkers to monitor therapeutic response and disease progression is critical. While attention has been focused on dissecting the molecular basis responsible for treatment resistance, it is clear that epigenetic changes warrant further in-depth investigation. Indeed, many aberrantly methylated genes play a role in cell cycle control, apoptosis, and cell invasion, as well as in melanoma progression. Longitudinal monitoring of DNA methylation via liquid biopsy can provide real-time information on the behavior and stage of melanoma. Malignant melanoma is the most serious, life-threatening form of all dermatologic diseases, with a poor prognosis in the presence of metastases and advan...