Quick Review: Melanoma

Melanoma is diagnosed in 30,000 Americans per year. The incidence of melanoma has been increasing over the past ten years at an alarming rate (83%). While melanoma accounts for only 3% of all cutaneous neoplasms, it is linked to 65% of skin cancer deaths. Melanoma is thought to be linked to ultraviolet radiation exposure, especially UV-B radiation [280-320 nm], and fair-skin. Patients that burn easily are at greater risk than those who tan easily. Non-Caucasians have a lower incidence of melanoma as well. Melanoma can be effectively treated with excision. Adjuvant therapy for node positive patients and those with deeper lesions is available. Prevention and early detection remain the best therapies.