SEARCH

melanoma

Melanoma

This is the most well-known of the serious skin cancers, and New Zealand has one of the highest rates of Melanoma in the world.

Melanoma are potentially life-threatening, making early diagnosis and urgent surgical excision of the utmost importance. Since safe and correct removal will give the best chance of survival, it is important to have melanomas treated by Fellowship-trained Specialist Surgeons (FRACS) who are able to perform the necessary wider excision and can proceed with further surgery if required - i.e lymph node clearance, which is done under General Anaesthetic in a Hospital. Investigations may include blood tests and CAT scans. Unfortunately, Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy and recent work in vaccine therapy have yet to show any advantage compared with thorough surgical removal.

Melanomas are removed surgically. The extent of surgery depends on the thickness of the tumour which is determined after the initial biopsy. After the treatment, regular follow-ups are arranged. These checks are important to detect any further problems from the Melanoma and to detect any new Melanoma early.

MELANOMA IN NZ

  • Intermittent pattern of sun exposure more closely related to Melanoma cf. farmers, outdoor workers etc
  • Sun beds associated with 4 x increase in Melanoma risk

MELANOMA AFFECTS THE YOUNG

  • Amongst 25 – 44 yr olds
    : the leading cancer among males
    : second leading cancer in females
     
  • For people under 25
    : third most common cancer in females
    : fourth most common in males

MELANOMA IN MALES

  • Higher incidence
  • Thicker tumours
  • Poorer outcomes: 90% higher death rate in 2007
  • Especially in > 59 yr olds

MELANOMA ETHNIC DIFFERENCES

  • 27 cases in Maori in 2007
  • 7 deaths – rates are increasing
  • 6 cases in Pacific Islanders in 2006
  • 2 deaths
  • Usually detected later at a more advanced stage

RISK FACTORS

  • Caucasian, red hair, i.e. Fitzpatrick skin types 1 & 2
  • Severe sun burn, 80% < 18yrs old
  • Previous Melanoma ^ risk 200%
  • Wealthier, more educated (more leisure time)
  • Pre-existing naevi
  • 1st degree relative – 10%