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Updated: Jun 21, 2026
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A 3D Organotypic Melanoma Spheroid Skin Model
Published on: May 18, 2018
Staging of cutaneous melanoma
P Mohr1, A M M Eggermont, A Hauschild
1Elbekliniken, Buxtehude, Germany. mohrpe@aol.com
Summary
The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging system for cutaneous melanoma evolves with new prognostic factors and imaging. Updated guidelines refine when to use computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET)/CT for accurate melanoma staging.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging system for cutaneous melanoma is dynamic.
- Prognostic factors and imaging techniques continually influence melanoma staging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current melanoma staging work-up.
- To outline the appropriate use of advanced imaging in cutaneous melanoma staging.
Main Methods:
- Review of current AJCC staging criteria for cutaneous melanoma.
- Analysis of indications for computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET)/CT in staging.
Main Results:
- CT is indicated for high-risk melanoma patients with specific symptoms or laboratory findings.
- MRI of the brain is mandatory for stage IV and optional for stage III melanoma.
- PET/CT offers superior accuracy for detecting metastases, especially in oligometastatic disease amenable to resection.
Conclusions:
- Melanoma staging is evolving, necessitating updated imaging protocols.
- Judicious use of CT, MRI, and PET/CT optimizes staging accuracy and patient management.
- Advanced imaging plays a crucial role in identifying metastatic sites and guiding treatment decisions in melanoma.
