MELANOMA: RISK IN ORGAN TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS

Course overview

The intense immunosuppressive therapy (IMT) necessary to prevent rejection and prolong survival of transplanted organs in TRs is associated with significantly increased rates of cutaneous (i.e., skin) melanoma, nonmelanoma skin cancers, and various cancers. Immunosuppressive agents increase the risk for many types of cancer in TRs because they may be carcinogenic (i.e., cancer-producing) and they cause chronic immunosuppression, which impairs the body’s normal surveillance and eradication of precancerous changes. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of relevant research on the risk of melanoma in organ TRs, including evidence-based information on risk factors, clinical presentation, symptoms, and treatment, and to aid in caring for the patient with this diagnosis. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the posttest and evaluation form.