Can malignant melanomas be influenced by estrogen?

The assertion that malignant melanomas can be influenced by estrogen rests on emerging research indicating that estrogen receptors may play a role in the biology of melanoma. While it has been established that melanoma primarily arises from genetic mutations and environmental factors, recent studies suggest that hormonal factors, including estrogen, may also influence the development and progression of this type of skin cancer.

Estrogen can impact various cellular processes, including proliferation and survival, and the presence of estrogen receptors in melanoma cells has raised the possibility that estrogen might contribute to tumor behavior. This is particularly relevant in understanding gender differences in melanoma incidence and outcomes, as well as the behavior of melanoma in premenopausal versus postmenopausal women.

This connection to estrogen aligns with the idea that hormonal fluctuations or exposure could influence the disease process, making it plausible that melanoma could be classified as estrogen-dependent in certain circumstances or among certain populations. Thus, the statement that malignant melanomas can be estrogen-dependent is supported by research indicating that estrogen may have a role in melanoma development and progression.