In the age of precision medicine, understanding the genetics of a tumor—not just a person’s inherited DNA—is playing a critical role in how melanoma is diagnosed, monitored, and treated. Our latest “From the Clinic to the Living Room” webinar dives into this important and evolving topic.

Hosted by Melissa Wilson, PA-C, MPAS, and featuring guest expert Yana G. Najjar, MD, this 30-minute webinar explores how tumor genetic testing is informing clinical decisions and improving outcomes for patients with melanoma.

What Is Tumor Genetic Testing?

Tumor genetic testing—also called somatic mutation testing—analyzes the DNA of melanoma cells to identify mutations driving the cancer’s growth. This is different from inherited (germline) genetic testing, which looks for mutations passed down through families. Tumor testing helps guide treatment decisions, especially in advanced melanoma, by showing which therapies may (or may not) be effective based on the tumor’s unique genetic profile.

Meet Our Guest Expert: Yana G. Najjar, MD

Dr. Najjar is a physician-scientist and cutaneous oncologist at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. As Associate Professor of Medicine and Director of the Clinical and Translational Research Center, she leads early-phase clinical trials for advanced and treatment-resistant melanoma. Her research focuses on targeting resistance mechanisms to immunotherapy and improving outcomes for rare melanoma subtypes.

Key Topics Covered in the Webinar

• What tumor genetic testing is—and how it’s different from inherited genetic testing
• How identifying mutations in melanoma tumors can help guide treatment
• Which genetic tests may be recommended depending on the type and stage of melanoma
• The role of tumor genetics in prognosis and recurrence risk
• How testing results may reveal why certain treatments aren’t working
• What’s next in the field of melanoma genetics and personalized medicine

Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this webinar provides essential insights into how tumor genetics is shaping melanoma care today and in the future.

Want to Learn More?

For additional information about topics discussed in the webinar, visit these related pages:

• Worried Your Melanoma Treatment Isn’t Working?
  Learn how doctors assess whether a patient is responding to treatment—and what steps to take if the treatment appears to be ineffective.
• Melanoma 101: Genetic Testing
  Understand the difference between tumor and inherited genetic testing, and how each can play a role in melanoma care.

Have Questions About Melanoma?

Get personalized support by connecting to our medical expert, Melissa Wilson, PA-C, MPAS, via our support page. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

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