In a nutshell
This study determined the 20 year survival rate for patients with thin melanomas. This study also looked at likely factors that might influence survival.
Some background
Thin melanomas measure less than 1.00 mm in diameter, and are considered an early stage of melanoma formation. Melanoma can generally be treated successfully with surgery alone when detected early and while still small and unspread. Survival rates in patients with melanoma are influenced by a number of factors. These factors include; age, sex and the site of the cancer.
Methods & findings
Data from 26,736 thin melanoma patients was analyzed in this study. Overall survival rates were determined at 5, 10, 15 and 20 years after diagnosis.
Overall 20-year survival rate was 96%. Broken down, at 5-years, 10-years, 15-years and 20-years, survival rates were 98.7%, 97.4%, 96.7% and 96.0% respectively.
Factors independently associated with reduced survival were thicker tumors, male sex, old age, and a specific type of cancer growth called nodular melanoma.
The bottom line
In summary, the prognosis of patients with thin melanomas is excellent. However, increased attention to patients with factors that reduce survival is warranted.
What’s next?
Consult on how to optimize your prognosis
Published By :
Journal of clinical oncology
Date :
Mar 12, 2012
