Melanoma secondary prevention

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Yazan Daaboul, M.D.; Serge Korjian M.D.

Overview[edit | edit source]

The choice of work-up for secondary prevention of melanoma is based on the stage of melanoma at diagnosis. Secondary prevention includes monthly self-exams, routine dermatologic evaluations, and chest and brain imaging.

Secondary Prevention[edit | edit source]

Measures for secondary prevention for melanoma depends on the stage of melanoma at diagnosis. To view the stages of melanoma, click here.

• The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends the following:^[1]

Stage 0 at Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

• Annual dermatologic evaluation for life
• Patient education regarding monthly self-skin exams

Stage IA at Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

• Dermatologic evaluation every 3-12 months for the first 5 years following diagnosis then annually thereafter
• Patient education regarding monthly self-skin exams
• Patient education regarding self-lymph node exam

Stage IB-IIA at Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

• Dermatologic evaluation every 3-6 months for the first 2 years the every 3-12 months for 3 years, then annually thereafter
• Patient education regarding monthly self-skin exams
• Patient education regarding self-lymph node exam
• Chest x-ray and measurement of CBC and LDH every 6-12 months may be considered (optional)

Stage IIB-IV at Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

• Imaging screening by annual brain MRI AND either chest X-ray, positron emission tomography (PET), or CT scan (preferred) every 3-12 months for the first 5 years.
• Dermatologic evaluation every 3-6 months for the first 2 years the every 3-12 months for 3 years, then annually thereafter
• Measurement of CBC and LDH every 6-12 months may be considered (optional)
• Patient education regarding monthly self-skin exams
• Patient education regarding self-lymph node exam

References[edit | edit source]

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