Melanoma patterns of distant relapse: a study of 108 cases from a South Brazilian center
An. bras. dermatol
;
91(1): 40-43, Jan.-Feb. 2016. tab
Article
in English
| LILACS
| ID: lil-776419
ABSTRACT
Abstract Background: The incidence of cutaneous melanoma has increased over the last decades. Recurrences occur most frequently within the first 2-3 years after diagnosis but patients carry a lifelong risk of relapse. Nevertheless, there is no consensus in the literature on what screening tests patients should undergo. Objectives: To evaluate the most common melanoma metastasis sites among a South Brazilian population from a city with one of the highest melanoma rates, and establish the best screening method for these patients. Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective study of 108 consecutive melanoma patients followed up at a center from 2009 to 2013. Data were collected on demographic and tumoral characteristics, as well as the site of the first diagnosed metastasis. Results: Patients were divided into 3 groups for analytical purposes: Non-visceral metastases (48% of patients), visceral metastasis (39%) and brain metastasis (13%). We tried to correlate age, gender, mean Breslow thickness, mitosis and death rates with the aforementioned groups but none showed any statistically significant association. Conclusion: Melanoma patients must be monitored to detect early relapse and subsequent effective treatment but the best follow-up strategy remains to be established.
Full text:
Available
Index:
LILACS (Americas)
Main subject:
Skin Neoplasms
/
Melanoma
Type of study:
Diagnostic study
/
Observational study
/
Prevalence study
/
Prognostic study
/
Risk factors
/
Screening study
Limits:
Adult
/
Aged
/
Female
/
Humans
/
Male
Country/Region as subject:
South America
/
Brazil
Language:
English
Journal:
An. bras. dermatol
Journal subject:
Dermatology
Year:
2016
Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Brazil
Institution/Affiliation country:
Hospital Santo Antônio/BR
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