Gene Profile Cuts Melanoma Follow-up Visits in Portland

A new study shows using 31-gene expression testing can safely reduce clinical follow-ups for low-risk melanoma patients.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Cancer

A close-up of sterile stainless-steel surgical tools on a white surface, representing dermatological oncology care. — Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University found that gene expression profiling can safely reduce post-operative follow-up visits for low-risk melanoma patients. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Would you trust a genetic test result if it meant having fewer doctor checkups?

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University found that using a 31-gene expression profile to risk-stratify melanoma patients reduces the need for frequent post-operative clinic visits. By transitioning low-risk patients to dermatology-only care, the clinic saved 2,286 visits between September 2017 and November 2024.

Why it matters

Surgical clinics have traditionally employed extensive follow-up schedules because even patients classified as low-risk can experience distant disease progression. This testing strategy helps optimize care delivery without compromising patient outcomes.

The study analyzed 584 patients, finding only 2 locoregional recurrences among 381 double-negative patients over a median follow-up of 38 months. Conversely, patients identified as class 2A or 2B on the expression profile saw 6 locoregional and 14 distant recurrences.

The players

Oregon Health & Science University

This Portland-based public university and research institution serves as the primary medical facility for the state of Oregon.

The details

Researchers defined double-negative melanoma patients by combining AJCC low-risk staging with class 1A results from a 31-gene expression profile. This classification allowed clinicians to safely discharge these patients from surgical oncology follow-up to routine dermatology care.

A policy change was implemented at Oregon Health & Science University in 2017.
Clinical visit data was collected from September 2017 to November 2024.
The research findings were published in JAMA Surgery on October 21, 2026.

Health Landscape

This research highlights an alternative scheduling model that diverges from the standard NCCN clinical practice guidelines for melanoma follow-up. The study marks a departure from established NCCN interval recommendations by demonstrating safe clinical practice through personalized risk stratification.

Low-risk melanoma patients at participating clinics may experience fewer surgical follow-up appointments without a reduction in the frequency of necessary skin exams. This shift allows patients to transition to more convenient dermatology-only care for their routine surveillance.

The takeaway

Using advanced genetic testing allows healthcare providers to tailor follow-up frequency to a patient's specific biological risk profile. Patients should discuss with their dermatologists whether molecular testing is appropriate for their specific diagnosis to simplify their long-term care.