Diagnosis and management of stage I/II melanoma.

Overview

OBJECTIVES: To describe the clinical features and histologic subtypes of cutaneous melanoma; to review the diagnosis, clinical, and pathologic staging of melanoma and the associated prognostic factors; and to review the treatment and management of AJCC stage I and II melanoma. DATA SOURCES: Scientific and review articles, textbooks, and clinical practice. CONCLUSIONS: Management of melanoma depends on accurate diagnosis, staging, and interpretation of prognostic factors. The treatment of choice for stage I and II melanoma is surgery, ranging from simple excision to lymph node dissection. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Familiarity with the clinical features of melanoma assists nurses in the screening and early detection of melanoma. Knowledge of AJCC staging guides education regarding treatment and lifelong surveillance.