Overview
Definition
Deadly form of skin cancer arising from melanocytes.
Epidemiology
Incidence is increasing rapidly.
Etiology & Risk Factors
- UV radiation exposure
- Fair skin
- BRAF V600E mutation
- Multiple dysplastic nevi
Clinical Symptoms
- ABCDE criteria: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter >6mm, Evolving mole
Clinical Approach
Diagnosis
- Excisional biopsy
Management
- Wide local excision
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy
- Immunotherapy (Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab)
- Targeted therapy
Complications
- Rapid metastasis to brain, lungs, liver