[Multiple primary malignant tumors in patients with malignant melanoma of the skin]

The incidence of further malignant tumors was analyzed by means of a retrospective study in 2335 melanoma patients. During the follow up 85 patients (3.64%) developed a second malignant tumor: 29 patients multiple primary malignant melanomas (mm), 49 a mm and a further nonmelanocytic malignant tumor, and 7 multiple primary mm and an additional non-melanocytic malignant tumor. Statistical calculations revealed that female melanoma patients have a 20 fold, and male melanoma patients a 30 fold increased risk to develop further malignant melanomas. In contrast, there was no increased incidence of non-melanocytic malignant tumors, breast carcinoma included. A total skin examination has therefore to be performed during follow up investigations of melanoma patients for early detection of further malignant melanomas.