Lymphangiogenesis and anti-lymphangiogenesis in cutaneous melanoma

Abstract

Cutaneous malignant melanoma is an aggressive tumor characterized by early lymph node metastasis and bad prognosis. Although the spread of tumor cells in the regional lymph nodes is very important in the staging, prognosis and therapeutic strategy of malignant melanoma, the mechanism(s) of initial lymphatic vessels invasion is are) not completely understood. In the present review, we analyze the main factors involved in melanoma-associated lymphangiogenesis, based on existing available evidence. Currently, there are no anti-lymphangiogenic drugs approved for clinical trials. On the other hand, inhibition of lymph node metastasis has been demonstrated in experimental models by inhibiting tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis.