Regression and Sentinel Lymph Node Status in Melanoma Progression

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Cutaneous melanoma prognosis is influenced by various clinical and histological factors.
• Understanding these prognostic indicators is crucial for effective patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the prognostic significance of histological regression in cutaneous melanoma.
• To assess the association of regression with disease progression, disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS).

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 173 cutaneous melanoma patients treated between 2005 and 2016.
• Inclusion criteria: sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy.
• Evaluation of clinical and histological features, including regression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs).

Main Results:

• Histological regression observed in 21.3% of cases, associated with marked/moderate TILs and negative SLN.
• Disease progression occurred in 24.2% of patients.
• Multivariate analysis identified positive lymph nodes and Breslow index >2 mm as independent predictors of DFS.
• Breslow thickness >2 mm, mild TILs, and positive SLN status correlated with OS.

Conclusions:

• Histological regression was not found to be associated with DFS or OS in cutaneous melanoma.
• Tumor thickness >2 mm and positive SLN status are significant predictors of recurrence.
• Breslow thickness, TIL status, and SLN status are key determinants of patient survival.