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Desmoplastic malignant melanoma: a systematic review
M B Lens1, J A Newton-Bishop, A P Boon
1Genetic Epidemiology Division, Cancer Research UK, St James's University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds LS9 7TF, UK. markolens@aol.com
The British Journal of Dermatology
|April 21, 2005
Summary
Desmoplastic melanoma (DM) is a rare skin cancer that is difficult to diagnose due to its variable appearance. Early surgical removal is crucial for effective management.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Desmoplastic melanoma (DM) is a rare and challenging malignant melanoma subtype.
- Its variable clinical presentation often leads to diagnostic difficulties and physician misdirection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review the literature on DM.
- To pool data and evaluate clinical and morphological characteristics of DM.
- To enhance understanding for improved patient management.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published studies on DM.
- Inclusion criteria: studies with >=10 participants and reported clinical/histological data.
- Data pooling from 17 studies involving 856 patients.
Main Results:
- Male predilection (63% male) with a 2:1 male/female ratio.
- Head and neck are most common sites (53.2%).
- DM typically presents with advanced Breslow thickness; amelanosis complicates histological diagnosis.
- Lower incidence of nodal metastasis compared to other melanoma types.
Conclusions:
- Prompt surgical excision is the primary treatment for DM.
- Enhanced knowledge of DM's clinical and histological features is vital for effective management.