A survey of in-vitro and in-vivo effects of steroids on melanoma growth and its implication on the nature of the disease

Abstract

Melanoma, a fatal form of skin cancer accounts for less than 2% of skin cancer, but is responsible for 75% death due to skin cancer [1]. UV rays in the Sun is believed to be responsible for 90% of melanoma incidence [2], with only 10% inherited in the family. Epidemiological studies showed that mortality rate was higher in males than in females [3]. Current targeted therapy and immuno-therapy are accompanied by serious side-effects such as endocrinopathies and other allergic and autoimmune disorders [4,5]. This situation warrants an understanding of the fundamental nature of the disease before developing any treatment. At this juncture, a survey of in-vitro and in-vivo effects of steroids on melanoma growth [6] provided a basis for the nature of this disease.