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Updated: Jan 16, 2026
A 3D Organotypic Melanoma Spheroid Skin Model
Published on: May 18, 2018
Prognostic Predictors of Oral Mucosal Melanoma-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Sofia Sebastian1, Monal Yuwanati1, Pratibha Ramani1
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India.
Background:
Oral mucosal melanoma (OMM) is a rare, aggressive malignancy; however, prognostic factors for OMM remain poorly defined. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify prognostic predictors that influence survival outcomes in OMM patients.
Methods:
PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched for case reports, case series, and retrospective observational studies involving patients with OMM. Data on demographics, tumor features, and survival were extracted. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Study quality was assessed using Murad criteria and the JBI checklist.
Results:
A total of 16 studies comprising 1151 patients were included in the systematic review; five studies with 942 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled 5-year survival proportion was 34% (95% CI: 24%-45%, I2 = 87%). Key predictors of poor prognosis included tumor size > 4 cm, lymph node metastasis, and non-palatal tumor location. Palatal lesions showed better survival (2-year survival-85%). Treatment primarily involved surgical resection; adjuvant therapies had limited benefit. Neck dissection showed no consistent survival advantage.
Conclusions:
Tumor size, lymph node involvement, and anatomical site are significant prognostic indicators in OMM. Standardized staging systems incorporating tumor burden and histopathologic markers are essential for improved prognostication.
