Researchers explore family history of melanoma, other top dermatology stories

When discussing the risk for all skin cancers, it is important to consider family history of melanoma in a first-degree relative, according to Erin X. Wei, MD, staff physician at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and instructor of dermatology at Harvard Medical School, and colleagues in the most popular Healio Dermatology story last week.

The researchers followed 216,115 participants from the Nurses’ Health Study, Nurses’ Health Study 2 and Health Professionals Follow-Up Study for more than 20 years.

In another top story, cannabidiol skin care products may have anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects, but researchers said that caution is warranted as studies have not examined the wide range of different cannabinoids.

Family history of melanoma increases risk for skin cancer

Those with a family history of melanoma had a 74% increased risk for melanoma, according to a study that followed white participants for more than 20 years. Read more.

Approach to unregulated CBD skin care products requires caution

Studies are beginning to demonstrate that cannabidiol may hold potential for treating various skin conditions, yet clinicians should use caution, as the products remain unregulated by the FDA and robust clinical data are lacking, according to findings published in Clinics in Dermatology. Read more.

Calculated tumor area provides independent prognostic value for patients with melanoma

A new two-dimensional feature called calculated tumor area appears to have effective independent prognostic value in patients with melanoma, according to a retrospective cohort study published in JAMA Dermatology. Read more.