Ultraviolet radiation and melanogenesis

Light radiation is a part of the electromagnetic radiation, and it consists of the ultraviolet (UV) radiation, visible light, and infrared radiation. UV radiation energy is absorbed in the form of photons in biomolecules (chromophores) and induces various cellular reactions, out of which photochemical and photosensitizing are the most significant. In contact with the skin UV radiation incites protection mechanisms: the most important are stratum corneum thickening and melanin synthesis (melanogenesis). Basic role of melanin is absorption and scattering of UV rays and neutralization of free radicals. In this review physical characteristics of UV radiation, its biological effects, and relation to melanogenesis and carcinogenesis are discussed

Pregnancy and melanoma

Numerous malignant diseases reach their incidence peak in female fertile years. That is the reason why these diseases are the second most common cause of death of women in their generative age. However, neoplastic processes are rarely diagnosed in pregnancy and there are no clear-cut guidelines on whether the pregnancy should be terminated in order that a proper treatment could be applied. We have not enough knowledge jet about the consequences for both the mother and her child if the pregnancy is allowed to continue despite the diagnosis of malignancy. Melanoma is one of the most common tumours diagnosed in pregnancy (8% of all diagnosed neoplasms). Some studies present the data on successfully terminated pregnancies in these women but also point out the risks the fetus is exposed to due to possible application of cytotoxic therapy, as well as the danger of transplacental spread of this process to the placenta and fetus