In this special podcast recorded from the 2024 Australasian Melanoma Conference, we hear from our international keynote speakers, Prof Susan Swetter and Prof Olivier Michelin, about what excites them in the field of melanoma research.

Interviewed by AMC2024 Co-Chairs, Prof Georgina Long AO and Prof Richard Scolyer AO, our guests provide their multidisciplinary perspectives and highlight the importance of working together to make an impact in melanoma prevention and patient care.

Dermatologist Prof Swetter discusses the evolving role of AI in dermatology and the clinical diagnosis of melanoma, and highlights the opportunity for improved prevention strategies in the US to reduce the incidence of melanoma.

Prof Michelin explores how we’re tackling advanced melanoma, in particular to maximize our current treatment tools and manage drug toxicities. He also discusses expanding access to neoadjuvant therapies and the potential of TIL therapies, alongside AI advancements in histopathological diagnosis to personalise treatment approaches.

This podcast is suitable for multidisciplinary healthcare professionals and researchers.

SPEAKERS

• Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney |2024 Joint Australian of the Year

• Prof Richard Scolyer AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Senior Staff Specialist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney |2024 Joint Australian of the Year

• Prof Susan Swetter - Professor of Dermatology, Co-Director of the Pigmented Lesion/Melanoma and Cutaneous Oncology Programs, Stanford University Medical Center and Cancer Institute | Chair, National Comprehensive Cancer Network Melanoma Panel

• Prof Olivier Michelin - Chair, Department of Oncology and the Precision Oncology Service, Geneva University Hospital | Co-Director, Swiss Cancer Centre Léman| Vice-Coordinator, Translational Research Centre in Onco-Hematology

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (October 2024) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.

Comprehensive infrastructure is essential to driving research progress and improving patient care.

In this podcast, A/Prof Sydney Ch’ng leads an insightful discussion on the groundbreaking research infrastructure that underpins the many groundbreaking achievements at Melanoma Institute Australia. The discussion highlights the Institute’s clinical trial program, translational research, biospecimen bank and melanoma research database, offering a closer look at the critical elements driving progress.

This podcast is suitable for multidisciplinary healthcare professionals, researchers and clinical trials staff.

SPEAKERS

• A/Prof Sydney Ch’ng - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon and Head & Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Associate Professor of Surgery, The University of Sydney

• Prof Helen Rizos - Cancer Cell Biologist and Research Lead in the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences at Macquarie University | Faculty Member, Melanoma Institute Australia

• A/Prof Serigne Lo - Senior Biostatistician, Melanoma Institute Australia | Associate Professor of Biostatistics, The University of Sydney

• Maria Gonzalez - Director of Clinical Care, Melanoma Institute Australia

• Dr Nicole Caixeiro - Head of the Biospecimen Bank, Melanoma Institute Australia

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (August 2024) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

LINKS

• 2024 Australasian Melanoma Conference
• Melanoma Education Program

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.

Despite recent advances in management of primary uveal melanoma, more than half of patients develop metastatic disease – often with poor outcomes. New therapeutic approaches to metastatic disease are vital.

In this podcast, A/Prof Matteo Carlino interviews fellow Medical  Oncologist Prof Georgina Long AO and Ophthalmologist A/Prof Max Conway on our latest understanding of the diagnosis and management of early and advanced uveal melanoma, including:

• presentation and diagnostic process
• current treatment options and rationale for local therapy in early melanoma
• determining which patients are suitable for screening for metastatic disease
• developing a surveillance plan based on risk of recurrence
• the different activity of systemic therapy in uveal versus cutaneous melanoma
• importance of the multidisciplinary team
• activity of tebentafusp in advanced uveal melanoma
• the current clinical trial landscape.

This podcast is suitable for Oncologists, Ophthalmologists, GPs, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals.

SPEAKERS

• A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma  Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals Clinical  Associate Professor, The University of Sydney
• Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director,  Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney
• A/Prof Max Conway - Ophthalmologist, Save Sight Institute, Sydney Eye Hospital and The University of Sydney

RESOURCES

• Early Ocular Melanoma Patient Information Brochure
• Advanced Ocular Melanoma Patient Information Brochure
• Melanoma Education Portal

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording  (November 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, BMS, Novartis and HEINE.

Treating clinicians rely on pathology to help diagnose and stage their patient which fundamentally determines the treatment management  plan. Therefore, it is incredibly important to get it right in the first place.

In this engaging podcast aimed at GPs, our multidisciplinary experts discuss:

• Why can it be challenging to get the pathology right?
• What clinical information is important to include on the pathology request form?
• How is the pathology report structured?
• How is the specimen processed?
• What biopsy is key to maximising the diagnostic and prognostic interpretation of the pathology?
• Are partial biopsies ever appropriate?
• What implications does the type of biopsy have for subsequent surgery?
• When does a GP need to refer their patient?

The discussion is concluded with two case studies to summarise key learnings.

This podcast is suitable for GPs, Dermatologists, Surgeons, Oncologists, Pathologists and other healthcare professionals.

SPEAKERS

• Dr Adrian Quek - Skin Cancer GP, Melanoma Institute Australia and The Chatswood Skin Cancer Clinic
• Dr Alison Potter - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
• Dr Nigel Maher - McMurtrie Cancer Pathology Fellow, Melanoma Institute Australia
• A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor  in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney
• Dr Niamh-Anna O’Sullivan - Specialist Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute Australia

HOST

• Danielle Fischer - Education Program Manager, Melanoma Institute Australia

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (June 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape  and approvals in Australia.

For more practice-changing education, visit our Melanoma Education Portal.

MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from: MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis and HEINE.

The role of pathology in the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma is pivotal to optimal patient care. With so many disciplines relying on the pathologist for accurate diagnoses and critical pathological information, we decided to reach out to our clinical melanoma community to ask them for their critical pathology questions. 

In this podcast, Prof John Thompson AO and Prof Fergal Moloney pick at the brain of the world's leading melanoma Pathologist, Prof Richard Scolyer AO, as they discuss: 

• The clinical information needed to aid diagnosis 
• The role of artificial intelligence and computing in pathology 
• Overdiagnosis of melanoma 
• The problem of partial biopsies 
• Diagnosing borderline lesions 
• What is a melanocytoma and how should it be managed 
• What is an irritated naevus 
• Dysplastic naevi and appropriate management 

This podcast is suitable for GPs, Dermatologists, Surgeons, Oncologists, Pathologists and other healthcare professionals. 

SPEAKERS 

Prof Richard Scolyer AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Senior Staff Specialist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney 

Prof John Thompson AO - Emeritus Professor of Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, The University of Sydney | Member, Melanoma Institute Australia 

Prof Fergal Moloney - Consultant Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Mater Misericordiae University Hospital | Clinical Professor, University College, Dublin 

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (June 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. 

For more practice-changing education, visit our Melanoma Education Portal. 

MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from: MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis and HEINE.

Cancer drugs have rapidly evolved in the last decade. Alongside the significant benefits are new toxicity profiles that clinicians need to be aware of and manage. In this podcast, A/Prof Carlino interviews fellow Medical Oncologist Prof Georgina Long AO on the adverse events/toxicities associated with targeted therapies (combination BRAF/MEK inhibitors) and immunotherapies (anti-PD-1, anti-LAG-3 and anti-CTLA-4), particularly in melanoma, and how they should be managed.

This podcast is suitable for Oncologists, Emergency Medicine Physicians, GPs, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals.

SPEAKERS

• Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney
• A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals Clinical Associate Professor, The University of Sydney

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (May 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from: MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis and HEINE.

The field of melanoma has experienced a paradigm shift in recent years, with advancements in both diagnosis and management driving improved patient outcomes. Through the power of research, day-to-day practice continues to be transformed. 

In this lively podcast, two of Australia's leading melanoma experts Prof Richard Scolyer AO and Prof Georgina Long AO discuss: 

• how melanoma management has transformed in the last decade 
• the challenge of diagnosing melanoma for clinicians and pathologists, and practical ways to help make accurate assessments 
• the importance of staging 
• why sentinel node biopsies are important 
• how multidisciplinary care enhances patient outcomes 
• emerging evidence on neoadjuvant treatment and how this will change the way melanoma is managed 
• the challenge of supportive care and where to find help. 

In this practical discussion, resources and further education for deeper dives into specific topics are also mentioned, with links below. 

This podcast is suitable for oncologists, surgeons, dermatologists, skin cancer GPs, GPs, nurses and other healthcare professionals. 

SPEAKERS 

• Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney 
• Prof Richard Scolyer AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Senior Staff Specialist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney 

LINKS TO RESOURCES 

• Melanoma Risk Prediction Tools 
• Prof John Thompson's presentation: Update on melanoma staging 
• Order or download a pocket-sized Melanoma Staging Card 
• Prof Richard Scolyer's presentation: Melanoma near misses: Clues to diagnosis 
• Dermoscopy module: Techniques in melanoma assessment 
• Interactive game: DermChallenge: Management. 
• Debate: To shave or not to shave when biopsying melanoma 
• Podcast: Multidisciplinary management of primary melanoma 
• Presentation by Dr Rob Rawson and Dr Michael Rtshiladze: The melanoma pathology report and its impact on clinical management 
• Wiki melanoma guidelines: Clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and management of melanoma 
• Interactive module: The current role of sentinel node biopsy in the management of melanoma 
• Debate: The role of sentinel node biopsy is overstated in melanoma 
• SNB Melanoma Risk Calculator 

Visit the Melanoma Education Portal for the full list of resources.

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (Feb 2022) but maynot reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. For more practice-changing education, visit our⁠ Melanoma Education Portal. ⁠MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE. 

Managing in-transit melanoma can be challenging, and it presents and progresses as a heterogeneous disease. Multidisciplinary care is recommended for this complex disease to determine the optimal outcome for the patient. 

In this engaging podcast, our multidisciplinary expert panel - featuring a Dermatologist, Surgeon and Medical Oncologist - discuss: 

• the clinical presentation of in-transit melanoma 
• importance of biopsy and imaging 
• local therapy options including surgical resection, topical diphencyprone, radiotherapy, injectable agents and isolated limb infusion
• systemic therapy options in the adjuvant and unresectable settings. 

In addition, the panel reviews a case study to put learnings into practice. 

This podcast is suitable for Surgeons, Medical Oncologists, Dermatologists, Skin Cancer GPs, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals. 

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (October 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. 

SPEAKERS 

• A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals | Clinical Associate Professor, The University of Sydney 
• A/Prof Robyn Saw - General Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Associate Professor in Surgery, The University of Sydney | Head of Department, Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital 
• Prof Diona Damian - Professor of Dermatology, The University of Sydney | Clinical Academic, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital |Associate, Melanoma Institute Australia

Melanoma has many mimics, making detection a challenge. However, early detection and appropriate management of melanoma is crucial to ensuring a patient has the best chance of survival.

In this podcast from Melanoma Institute Australia, our multidisciplinary panel discuss:

• the clinical presentation of melanoma
• tips to help make a clinical diagnosis
• understanding the histological features for diagnosis
• how to know when to biopsy
• which biopsy is best
• ramifications of subtotal biopsies
• who requires a sentinel node assessment and what does that involve

In addition, the panel reviews a case study to put learnings into practice.

This podcast is suitable for Dermatologists, Skin Cancer GPs, GPs, Surgeons, Nurses and other healthcare professionals.

SPEAKERS

• Dr Adrian Quek - Skin Cancer GP, Melanoma Institute Australia and The Chatswood Skin Cancer Clinic

• A/Prof Jonathan Stretch AM - Surgical Oncologist and Deputy Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia
• Dr Bruna Gouveia - Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute Australia

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (May 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

For more practice-changing education, visit the Melanoma Education Portal (melanomaeducation.org.au).

Due to the highly aggressive nature of Merkel cell carcinoma, accurate and timely diagnosis is essential to ensure optimal management. Although our understanding of the biology of the disease has advanced significantly in recent years, a clinical conundrum still exists regarding the ideal therapeutic strategy for each patient. 

In this podcast, our multidisciplinary panel discuss: 

• the pathology of Merkel cell carcinoma 
• differential diagnoses 
• clinical presentation 
• the role of surgery and its importance in diagnosis, staging and salvage 
• how radiotherapy is used in the definitive and adjuvant settings 
• the role of systemic therapy 
• emerging therapies and the importance of clinical trials. 

In addition, the panel reviews two case studies to put learnings into practice. 

This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Surgeons, Dermatologists, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals. 

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (March 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. 

SPEAKERS: 

• Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital 
• Dr Kerwin Shannon - Surgical Oncologist and Head and Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia and Chris O'Brien Lifehouse 
• Prof Angela Hong - Radiation Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia |Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney 
• Dr Ines Silva - Medical Oncologist and Researcher, Melanoma Institute Australia | Fellow, Westmead Hospital

Hear our expert multidisciplinary panel discuss the latest management options for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma - the most common forms of non-melanoma skin cancers. They have a wide clinical and pathological presentation, and early detection and treatment is vital to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with these diseases.

In this podcast, our multidisciplinary panel discuss:

• the pathology and aetiology of SCCs and BCCs
• when a GP should refer their patient
• the role of surgery
• when radiotherapy is indicated in the definitive and adjuvant setting
• how systemic therapy can play a role in advanced disease.

In addition, the panel review two cases to solidify the learnings.

This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Surgeons, Dermatologists, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals.

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (March 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

SPEAKERS:

Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital

Dr Kerwin Shannon - Surgical Oncologist and Head and Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia and Chris O’Brien Lifehouse

Prof Angela Hong - Radiation Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia |Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney

Dr Ines Silva - Medical Oncologist and Researcher, Melanoma Institute Australia | Fellow, Westmead Hospital

The success of immunotherapy and targeted therapy in the treatment of advanced melanoma has led to the same therapies being used in the adjuvant setting to reduce the risk of recurrence. 

In this podcast, A/Prof Matteo Carlino interviews fellow Medical Oncologist A/Prof Alexander Menzies on the evidence for adjuvant therapy to guide clinical decision-making. Understanding the complexities of adjuvant therapy is key to identifying and managing patients suitable for this treatment. Topics covered in this discussion include:

• Weighing up the risk-benefit ratio in the use of adjuvant therapy 
• Patient populations who are not suitable for adjuvant therapy 
• Treating BRAF-mutant patients - which option is best? 
• Adjuvant treatment for mucosal melanoma 
• Follow-up imaging after adjuvant therapy to identify recurrence and toxicities 
• The diminished role of completion lymph node dissection
• The role of adjuvant radiotherapy 
• Adjuvant therapy in Stage II melanoma 
• Neoadjuvant therapy 
• Management of recurrences on or after adjuvant therapy 

This podcast is suitable for Oncologists, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals. 

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (Feb 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. 

SPEAKERS: 

• A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney 
• A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals Clinical Associate Professor, The University of Sydney

Neoadjuvant immunotherapy is transforming patient care in the field of melanoma. New research recently presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting is set to change melanoma treatment protocols globally, and likely to have significant impact on treatment for other cancers too.

In this podcast, A/Prof Matt Carlino leads an engaging discussion with MIA’s Prof Georgina Long AO, A/Prof Alex Menzies and A/Prof Alex van Akkooi as they discuss the pivotal results from the NADINA trial and how this will undoubtedly change the standard of care for Stage III melanoma patients. They also discuss the practical implications for implementing this treatment regime, including relevant patient populations, toxicity, impacts for surgery and future directions.

This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Surgical Oncologists, Pathologists, Researchers, GPs Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals. It is produced by Melanoma Institute Australia.

SPEAKERS

• A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals | Clinical Associate Professor, The University of Sydney
• Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney
• A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney
• A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney

PUBLICATIONS

• Blank C, Lucas MW, Scolyer RA, et al. Neoadjuvant Nivolumab and Ipilimumab in Resectable Stage III Melanoma. N Engl J Med 2024. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2402604
• Patel SP, Othus M, Chen Y, et al. Neoadjuvant–Adjuvant or Adjuvant-Only Pembrolizumab in Advanced Melanoma. N Engl J Med 2023;388:813-823.

FURTHER EDUCATION

• Podcast: Neoadjuvant immunotherapy: Revolutionising melanoma treatment

• Video: The critical role of standardised pathological assessment in neoadjuvant therapy for melanoma: A guide for Pathologists

• Conference: 2024 Australasian Melanoma Conference

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (2024) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.

In the rapidly evolving treatment landscape for advanced melanoma, medical oncologists now have a suite of treatments to choose from for their patients. In this engaging podcast, A/Prof Menzies interviews fellow Medical Oncologist A/Prof Carlino on the rationale behind their clinical decision making when it comes to choosing the most appropriate therapy for their patients, including sequencing and combination therapies. They also take a deeper dive into treatment toxicities and how to manage them for targeted and immune therapies. 

This podcast is suitable for Oncologists, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals.

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (June 2020) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

Melanoma is one of the most common human malignancies, however we often don't often think of it as a disease that occurs in children. Although exceedingly rare, clinicians do need to be aware of paediatric melanoma and have a high level of suspicion for these lesions as they are often diagnosed late. 

In this podcast, a Surgeon, Dermatologist and Medical Oncologist discuss how melanoma presents in children and adolescents, and how this differs from the adult setting. They also discuss how melanoma should be managed in these patients and discuss two patient case studies. 

This podcast is suitable for Surgeons, Dermatologists, Medical Oncologists, GPs and other healthcare professionals.

SPEAKERS

• A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals | Clinical Associate Professor, The University of Sydney
• Dr Gideon Sandler - Consultant Adult and Paediatric Head and Neck Surgeon and Surgical Oncologist, Westmead Hospital and the Children’s Hospital at Westmead Affiliate, Melanoma Institute Australia
• Dr Li-Chuen Wong - Consultant Paediatric and Adult Dermatologist and Head of Dermatology | Children’s Hospital at Westmead

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (March 2020) but maynot reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

For more practice-changing education, visit our Melanoma Education Portal. MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE. 

In the evolving treatment landscape of melanoma, it is important for GPs and Dermatologists to be confident in managing or knowing when to refer their melanoma patients. In this podcast, Surgeon A/Prof Robyn Saw, Dermatologist Dr Annika Smith and Skin Cancer GP Dr Adrian Quek discuss the ideal biopsy for a melanoma diagnosis, provides an overview of management of early stage disease, outlines the role of sentinel lymph node biopsy and discusses which patients need referral to a specialist melanoma clinic.

In the last decade, the treatment landscape for melanoma has been transformative for patients with advanced disease. Although managed primarily by medical oncologists, it is important for GPs to be across which treatments are available for their patients as they are often the first point of contact when a patient becomes unwell. 

In this podcast, Medical Oncologist Professor Georgina Long discusses how systemic therapy is used in the treatment of advanced melanoma, and how a GP can identify and manage toxicities in patients being treated with targeted or immunotherapies. 

This podcast is suitable for GPs, Skin Cancer GPs, nurses and other healthcare professionals.

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (Oct 2019) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

Thanks to advancements in therapy, we are now seeing large numbers of patients surviving advanced melanoma, and with that comes well-being and psychological challenges that need to be addressed. Clinicians need to be cognisant of their patients' needs beyond the medical side.Dietitian Jane Freeman, Psychologist Michelle Davey and Physiotherapist Carol Morris discuss the role that food, mood and movement has in the holistic approach to treating melanoma patients and survivors, and the role that you - as a clinician - can play.This podcast is suitable for oncologists, GPs, oncology nurses and other healthcare practitioners.

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (May 2019) but maynot reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. For more practice-changing education, visit our⁠ Melanoma Education Portal. ⁠MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE. 

The management of melanoma patients with brain metastases has changed rapidly in the last five years, and patients now have much-improved survival rates. Brain metastases are no longer a death sentence and many people can have control of their disease with quality life.In this podcast, Medical Oncologist A/Prof Alex Menzies, Neurosurgeon Dr Brindha Shivalingam and Radiation Oncologist Prof Angela Hong discuss the contemporary multidisciplinary management of patients with brain metastases and through examining two case studies, they discern the factors that need to be considered for deciding best practice.This podcast is suitable for medical oncologists, rural oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons (including neurosurgeons), and may also be of interest to GPs, oncology nurses and other healthcare practitioners.

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (March 2019) but maynot reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

For more practice-changing education, visit our⁠ Melanoma Education Portal. ⁠MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE. 

Biomarkers are revolutionising our understanding of melanoma by providing valuable information about a patient's unique tumour characteristics which can help guide clinical decision making.

In this podcast, A/Prof Alex Menzies leads a multidisciplinary discussion on the current state of biomarker application and future prospects of biomarkers in melanoma care. They discuss emerging liquid biomarkers, such as ctDNA, MIA’s personalised immunotherapy platform that is trying to predict the likelihood of response and select patients for treatment, and the role of the gut microbiome as a potential biomarker in response and toxicity.

This podcast from Melanoma Institute Australia is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Surgical Oncologists, Researchers, GPs and other healthcare professionals.

LINKS:

• 2024 Australasian Melanoma Conference

• Melanoma Risk Prediction Tools

• Melanoma Education Portal

SPEAKERS

• A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney

• A/Prof Ines Silva - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Blacktown Hospital | Research Scientist, Melanoma Institute Australia and The University of Sydney

• Prof Helen Rizos - Cancer Cell Biologist and Research Lead in the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences at Macquarie University | Faculty Member, Melanoma Institute Australia

• A/Prof James Wilmott - Senior Scientist, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney| Faculty Member, Melanoma Institute Australia

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (April 2024) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, BMS and HEINE.

Mucosal melanoma is a rare and aggressive form of melanoma that arises from the mucous membrane.

In this podcast, we focus on mucosal melanoma of the head and neck. Led by A/Prof Sydney Ch’ng, our multidisciplinary experts discuss how it differs from cutaneous melanoma, staging of mucosal melanoma, management of the disease and future treatments.

The discussion concludes with a case study to summarise key learnings.

This podcast is suitable for Plastic Surgeons, Surgical Oncologists, Dermatologists, Medical Oncologists, Pathologists, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals.

Register now to attend the 2024 Australasian Melanoma Conference, hosted by Melanoma Institute Australia.

SPEAKERS

• A/Prof Sydney Ch’ng - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon and Head & Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Associate Professor of Surgery, The University of Sydney
• Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney
• A/Prof Raewyn Campbell - Rhinologist and Anterior Skull Base Surgeon |Associate Professor, Macquarie University
• Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
• Prof Angela Hong - Radiation Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia | Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (March 2024) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, BMS and HEINE.

Diagnostic uncertainty in the context of cutaneous melanoma can have significant impact on patient care.

In this podcast, our multidisciplinary experts, led by Dr Adrian Quek, discuss the challenges faced in classifying melanocytic lesions that fall into a diagnostic grey area, and explore the terminology, evolving classifications and the impact of diagnostic uncertainty on patient outcomes.

From molecular changes to clinical perspectives, this engaging discussion provides a comprehensive exploration of the complexities surrounding borderline lesions, and emphasises the need for experienced multidisciplinary professionals in ensuring accurate diagnoses and ideal management.

This podcast is suitable for Pathologists, Dermatologists, Surgeons, Oncologists, GPs and other healthcare professionals.

Register now to attend the ⁠2024 Australasian Melanoma Conference⁠, hosted by Melanoma Institute Australia. RESOURCES

• Video: How to diagnose borderline cutaneous melanocytic lesions

• Paper: Yeh, I. New and evolving concepts of melanocytic nevi and melanocytomas. Modern Pathology. 2020;33:1-14.

• Nevus/Melanocytoma/Melanoma: An Emerging Paradigm for Classification of Melanocytic Neoplasms?. Arch Pathol Lab Med. 2011;135(3): 300–306.

SPEAKERS

• Dr Adrian Quek - Skin Cancer GP, Melanoma Institute Australia and Chatswood Skin Cancer Clinic
• A/Prof Robyn Saw - General Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Head of Department in Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Associate Professor in Surgery, The University of Sydney
• Prof H. Peter Soyer - Chair in Dermatology and Director of the Dermatology Research Centre, The University of Queensland
• Dr Andrew Colebatch - Staff Specialist in Anatomical Pathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (November 2023) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.

For more clinical education from MIA, sign up to the Melanoma Education Portal.

With the advent of effective medical therapies for melanoma, a pertinent question has arisen: When should we scan our patients?

In this podcast, our multidisciplinary experts, led by A/Prof Sydney Ch’ng, discuss the balance of whether we should be more aggressive in our pursuit of identifying potential metastases or exercise caution to avoid unnecessary scans, radiation exposure and patient anxiety. The discussion concludes with a case study to summarise key learnings.

This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Oncologists, Surgeons, GPs, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals.

RESOURCES

Melanoma Risk Prediction Tools

SPEAKERS

• A/Prof Sydney Ch’ng -  Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon and Head & Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia, Associate Professor of Surgery, The University of Sydney 

• A/Prof Alexander Menzies -  Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney

• A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney

• Dr Edward Hsiao - Radiologist and Nuclear Medicine Specialist, Mater Imaging
• Dr Kevin London - Nuclear Medicine Specialist, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead | Clinical Senior Lecturer, The University of Sydney

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (September 2023) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

For more practice-changing education, visit our Melanoma Education Portal.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE. 

Sentinel node biopsy (SNB) plays a key role in assessing the prognosis of melanomas.

In this fireside chat from our new SNB Training Program (Sentinel Node Biopsy: From guidelines to practice), MIA’s Prof Georgina Long AO, Prof John Thompson AO and A/Prof Sydney Ch’ng discuss:

• the history of SNB in the management of melanoma
• its current role in the stratification of patients into those who may benefit from adjuvant therapies verses those for whom active surveillance is more appropriate
• other potential benefits of SNB, including the likelihood of SNB itself reducing the risk of nodal recurrence.

This podcast is suitable for Surgeons, Medical Oncologists, General Practitioners and other healthcare professionals.

SPEAKERS

• A/Prof Sydney Ch’ng - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon and Head & Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Associate Professor of Surgery, The University of Sydney
• Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney
• Prof John Thompson AO - Emeritus Professor of Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, The University of Sydney | Senior Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (July 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

Our latest podcast explores the innovative approach of neoadjuvant  immunotherapy - administering checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy before the surgical removal of  melanoma. This promising approach is creating a buzz among multidisciplinary clinicians and researchers globally as the potential  benefits for melanoma patients are being realised.

Although neoadjuvant therapy is well established in oncology, using immunotherapy in melanoma has revolutionised patient outcomes through significant improvements in overall survival rates.

In this engaging podcast, MIA’s Prof Georgina Long AO leads a discussion with multidisciplinary world leaders in the neoadjuvant space to discuss:

• the benefits of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy
• the role of the pathologist in the assessment of neoadjuvant tissue
• the impact of surgical decision-making as neoadjuvant becomes mainstay treatment
• options for treatment-refractory patients
• the role of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy in non-melanoma skin cancer.

The discussion concludes with case studies to summarise key learnings.

This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Oncologists,  Surgeons, Pathologists, Dermatologists, GPs, Oncology Nurses and other  healthcare professionals.

SPEAKERS:

• Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director,  Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and  Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North  Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney
• Prof Richard Scolyer AO - Co-Medical Director,  Melanoma Institute Australia | Pathologist, Melanoma Institute  Australia, Senior Staff Specialist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital |  Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney
• A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist,  Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals |  Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of  Sydney
• A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor  in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal  Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney

KEY CLINICAL TRIALS

1. SWOG
2. PRADO
3. OpACIN-neo
4. NADINA

FURTHER EDUCATION

• The critical role of standardised pathological assessment in neoadjuvant therapy for melanoma: A guide for Pathologists 

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording  (February 2023) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment  landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.

Lentigo maligna – a subtype of in situ melanoma – presents diagnostic and treatment challenges for clinicians.

In this podcast, Dr Michael Rtshiladze leads a multidisciplinary  discussion to unravel our understanding of the pathology, diagnosis and  management of lentigo maligna, including:

• clinical and histological presentation
• tools to diagnose and monitor lesions
• the impact of different types of biopsies
• the importance of mapping the extent of lesions
• the challenge of surgical management in cosmetically sensitive areas
• the role of radiation therapy and topical treatments
• when to refer your patient.

The discussion concludes with a case study to summarise key learnings.

This podcast is suitable for Plastic Surgeons, General Surgeons,  Dermatologists, Oncologists, Pathologists, GPs, Nurses and other  healthcare professionals.

SPEAKERS

• Dr Michael Rtshiladze - Plastic and Reconstructive  Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The  Prince of Wales Hospital, St George Hospital and Sydney Children’s  Hospital
• Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
• Prof Pascale Guitera - Dermatologist, Melanoma  Institute Australia | Director, Sydney Melanoma Diagnostic Centre at  Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Professorial Research Fellow, The  University of Sydney
• Prof Angela Hong - Radiation Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia | Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney

RESOURCE AND REFERENCE

• Lentigo Maligna Patient Information Brochure
• Crouch G, Sinha S, Lo S, Saw RPM, Lee KK, Stretch J, Shannon K, Guitera P, Scolyer RA, Thompson JF & Ch'ng S. Clinical outcomes following surgical treatment of lentigo maligna of the head and neck. Eur J Surg Oncol. 2021 May;47(5):1145-1151.

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording  (December 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment  landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.

In our third episode of our special vodcast series, Redefining Immunotherapy: Lessons from Melanoma, our experts focus on one of the most important challenges in modern cancer care: immunotherapy toxicity.

From subtle early warning signs to life-threatening immune-related adverse events, this episode explores how clinicians can better predict, recognise and manage toxicity while still maximising the life-saving potential of immunotherapy.

Led by Prof Georgina Long AO, the panel of experts share real-world insights from decades of combined experience, including:

• how to educate patients to improve early reporting of symptoms
• when to pause treatment and why "less can be more"
• practical approaches to managing colitis, hepatitis, pneumonitis and neurological toxicities
• the evolving role of steroids, infliximab and targeted immunosuppression
• why early intervention can improve both quality of life and survival outcomes.

Packed with nuanced clinical discussion, relatable patient scenarios and candid expert debate, this episode delivers valuable insights for healthcare professionals using immunotherapy across melanoma and other cancer settings.

Be sure to take a look at our earlier episodes from this series.

This special edition vodcast from Melanoma Institute Australia is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Oncology Nurses and other health professionals.

SPEAKERS

• Prof Georgina Long AO - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and The University of Sydney
• Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and The University of Sydney
• A/Prof Ines Silva - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia

• A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and The University of Sydney

Please note that this presentation was accurate at the time of recording (April 2026) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

This special vodcast is an initiative of Melanoma Institute Australia and made possible by an unrestricted educational grant from Bristol Myers Squibb.

For more practise-changing education, visit the Melanoma Education Portal.

In our second episode of our special vodcast series, Redefining Immunotherapy: Lessons from Melanoma, our experts tackle one of the biggest challenges in modern oncology: how do we make smarter immunotherapy decisions for individual patients?

The panel explores the real-world factors that shape treatment selection in advanced melanoma; from tumour burden, brain and liver metastases, and BRAF mutation status, to patient age, fitness and comorbidities. They unpack the evolving role of combination immunotherapy,including PD-1 monotherapy, ipilimumab/nivolumab and newer LAG-3 combinations, while weighing the balance between efficacy and toxicity.

The discussion also dives into the promise and limitationsof biomarkers such as PD-L1, tumour mutational burden (TMB), interferon gamma signatures and MSI-high status, and examines why predicting response to immunotherapy remains one of the field’s greatest challenges.

Blending practical clinical insight with emerging research,this episode offers a thoughtful and highly relevant discussion on personalising immunotherapy in the pursuit of more durable outcomes, and ultimately, cure.

This vodcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Oncology Nurses and other health professionals.

SPEAKERS

• Prof Georgina Long AO - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and The University of Sydney

• Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and The University of Sydney
• A/Prof Ines Silva - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia
• A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and The University of Sydney

Please note that this presentation was accurate at the time of recording (April 2026) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

This special vodcast is an initiative of Melanoma Institute Australia and was made possible by an unrestricted educational grant from Bristol Myers Squibb.

In this opening episode of our special vodcast series “Redefining Immunotherapy: Lessons from Melanoma”, our world-leading Medical Oncologists set the stage for a compelling five-part series exploring how immunotherapy is reshaping cancer care.

Led by Prof Georgina Long AO, this engaging discussion unpacks how tumours evade the immune system, how checkpoint inhibitors work and why responses can be so durable. They also discuss how immunotherapy differs from chemotherapy and targeted therapy—shifting treatment from directly attacking cancer to activating the body’s own immune response.

Drawing on both clinical experience and emerging research, this episode sets the foundation for the series ahead—challenging traditional paradigms and offering a practical, clinician-focused lens on how immunotherapy is reshaping cancer care across tumour types.

This vodcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Oncology Nurses and other health professionals.

SPEAKERS

• Prof Georgina Long AO - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and The University of Sydney

• Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and The University of Sydney
• A/Prof Ines Silva - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia
• A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and The University of Sydney

Please note that this presentation was accurate at the time of recording (April 2026) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

This special vodcast is an initiative of Melanoma Institute Australia and was possible by an unrestricted educational grant from Bristol Myers Squibb.

For more practice-changing education, visit MIA's Melanoma Education Portal.

As patients transition from treatment to routine monitoring, clinicians play a crucial part in detecting recurrence early, supporting wellbeing, and guiding patients through survivorship.

In the latest episode of our podcast Melanoma Insights for Professionals, we explore the essential role of follow-up care in melanoma management.

Our multidisciplinary experts provide an engaging and practical discussion to help strengthen your approach to melanoma follow-up care and covers:

• why follow-up schedules vary and how clinicians tailor them
• stage-specific approaches for all stages of melanoma
• the role of dermatological surveillance and patient education
• supporting psychological wellbeing, including managing scanxiety.

This podcast is suitable for Surgeons, Dermatologists, Skin Cancer GPs, GPs, Nurses and other health professionals.

If you require a Statement of Completion for your CPD records, please listen to this podcast via the the Melanoma Education Portal.

SPEAKERS

• A/Prof Robyn Saw - Surgical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia | Head of Department in Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Associate Professor in Surgery, The University of Sydney
• Dr Mary-Ann El Sharouni - Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Sydney Melanoma Diagnostic Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
• Claire Gore - Senior Clinical Psychologist, Melanoma Institute Australia

RESOURCES

• MIA’s Patient Resources (including Guides like Melanoma Prevention and Early Detection Guide and Patient Fact Sheet such as Scanxiety and How to cope with the fear of melanoma returning)

• Cancer Council’s SunSmart Global UV app

Please note that this presentation was accurate at the time of recording (November 2025) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from BMS, MSD and HEINE.

As melanoma in situ (MIS) diagnoses rise, concerns about overdiagnosis are growing — with real implications for patients, clinicians and the health system.

In this episode of our podcast Melanoma Insights for Professionals, experts from dermatology, pathology, psychology and research come together to explore the drivers of overdiagnosis, the psychological impact of an MIS label, and the role of emerging diagnostic tools and data.

This podcast is suitable for multidisciplinary specialist, primary care physicians and other healthcare professionals.

SPEAKERS

• Dr Peter Ferguson - Pathologist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Melanoma Institute Australia
• Dr Christoph Sinz - Confocal Microscopy Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute Australia
• Claire Gore - Senior Clinical Psychologist, Melanoma Institute Australia
• Dr Ismael Vergara - Senior Computational Biologist, Melanoma Institute Australia | Adjunct Senior Lecturer, The University of Sydney

RESOURCES

• MIA’s Patient Guides (e.g. Your Guide to Melanoma In-Situ)
• MIA’s Patient Fact Sheets (e.g. Scanxiety)

REFERENCES

• Bjørch MF, Gram EG, Brodersen JB Overdiagnosis in malignant melanoma: a scoping review BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine 2024;29:17-28.
• Cramb SM, Duncan EW, Aitken JF, Soyer HP, Mengersen KL, Baade PD. Geographical patterns in melanoma incidence across Australia: Can thickness differentials reveal the key drivers? Ann Cancer Epidemiol 2020;4:11
• Daniel Lindsay, Katy J L Bell, Catherine M Olsen, David C Whiteman, Thanya Pathirana, Louisa G Collins, Estimating the magnitude and healthcare costs of melanoma in situand thin invasive melanoma overdiagnosis in Australia British Journal of Dermatology, 2024;191(6): 906–913,
• Patel VR, Roberson ML, Pignone MP, Adamson AS. Risk of Mortality After a Diagnosis of Melanoma In Situ. JAMA Dermatol.2023;159(7):703–710.

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (August 2025) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from Bristol Myers Squibb, MSD and HEINE.

In this episode, we explore how melanoma risk prediction tools are transforming clinical decision-making for newly diagnosed patients. These tools, developed by Melanoma Institute Australia and freely available at melanomarisk.org.au, help clinicians tailor care and improve outcomes.

Our multidisciplinary experts provide practical guidance on using tools to predict sentinel node metastasis, recurrence risk and more. Through real-world case examples and expert insights, this episode offers valuable strategies for integrating personalised risk assessment into your practice.

This podcast is suitable for multidisciplinary specialists, primary care physicians and other healthcare professionals.

Resources:

• Melanoma Risk Prediction Calculators
• MIA's Patient Resources
• Melanoma Education Portal

Speakers:

• Prof Anne Cust - Cancer Epidemiologist and Faculty Member, Melanoma Institute Australia | Interim Director, Daffodil Centre | Chair, Cancer Council National Skin Cancer Committee

• A/Prof Alex Varey - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia and Westmead Hospital | Clinical Associate Professor, The University of Sydney

• A/Prof Linda Martin - Director of Dermatology Services, Melanoma Institute Australia | Staff Specialist, Sydney Children’s Hospital | Associate Professor of Dermatology, University of NSW

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (August 2025) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from BMS, MSD and HEINE.

In this episode of Melanoma Insights for Professionals, we explore the evolving role of sentinel node biopsy (SNB) in melanoma management—particularly in the modern context of perioperative drug therapy.

Our expert panel unpacks current evidence, shifting guidelines and real-world clinical considerations influencing when and why SNB is performed. Topics include prognostic value, surgical decision-making, pathological assessment, patient-centred perspectives and the impact of new treatment approaches on traditional staging practices.

This podcast is produced by Melanoma Institute Australia and is suitable for multidisciplinary specialists, primary care physicians and other healthcare professionals.

RESOURCES:

• Melanoma Risk Prediction Tools
• Patient brochure on SNB
• MIA's Melanoma Education Portal (Clinicians only)

SPEAKERS:

• A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney
• A/Prof Robyn Saw - Surgical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia | Head of Department in Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Associate Professor in Surgery, The University of Sydney
• A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney
• Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia |Tissue Pathology Staff Specialist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (May 2025) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from Bristol Myers Squibb, MSD and HEINE.

In this episode of Melanoma Insights for Professionals, we explore the cutting-edge role of artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnosing melanoma.

Join Dermatologists Prof Pascale Guitera and Prof Victoria Mar and Pathologist Dr Nigel Mayer as they unpack how AI is transforming clinical practice—from lesion detection and triage to deep learning in pathology and improving clinical education.

Discover the promise, limitations and ethical considerations of integrating AI into dermatology and pathology, and hear what's next on the horizon for both clinicians and patients.

This podcast is suitable for multidisciplinary specialists, primary care physicians, researchers and other healthcare professionals.

SPEAKERS

• Prof Pascale Guitera - Dermatologist and Education Committee Chair, Melanoma Institute Australia | Director, Sydney Melanoma Diagnostic Centre at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital

• Prof Victoria Mar - Director, Victorian Melanoma Service at The Alfred | Professor of DermatoOncology, the School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University

• Dr Nigel Maher - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair of the AI Working Group, Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (May 2025) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

MIA’s Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from BMS, MSD and HEINE.

For more practice-changing clinical education, visit the Melanoma Education Portal.