Neurotransmitter exchange in patients with skin melanoma

Aim. To study peculiarities of neurotransmitter exchange in patients with skin melanoma.

Methods. Neurotransmitters (adrenaline, noradrenaline, dopamine) and their ratio in blood plasma were determined in 111 patients with skin melanoma and 38 healthy donors. The patients were divided into 3 groups: primary patients, patients with relapse of the disease and without relapse. To exclude the influence of undesirable factors (stress and physical exertion) on the level of neurotransmitters, the patients’ blood was drawn 1 day after admission in the morning on an empty stomach. Adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine concentration in the blood plasma was determined with the use of high-yield liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection.

Results. Analyzing noradrenaline/adrenaline ratio in the studied patients’ groups we noted significant unidirectionality of the changes in the form of increased noradrenaline and decreased adrenergic link of sympathoadrenal system i.e. in patients with skin melanoma mediator link dominates over hormonal link. Evaluation of noradrenaline/dopamine and dopamine ratio demonstrated that in normal or even increased level of dopamine adrenaline and noradrenaline levels are below normal that can indicate dysfunction of enzyme systems involved in neurotransmitter exchange and/or their accumulation in tumors. Maximal disorders of neurotransmitter exchange were registered in the group of patients with the disease relapse.

Conclusion. Patients with skin melanoma have imbalance of sympathoadrenal system that creates the perspective for the use of neuropharmacological drugs and psychotherapy in the treatment and rehabilitation of such patients.