Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma Survival Outcomes, Recurrence Patterns, and Prognostic Factors: A Systematic Literature

Annie J Orr1,2, Rachel Fenberg3,4, Ricardo L Carrau3

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, United States.

Abstract

Insights

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) has a high mortality rate, with 70% of patients dying within 5 years. Advances in treatment, particularly targeted immunotherapy, are needed to improve survival outcomes for this rare cancer.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Head and Neck Surgery
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is a rare cancer, accounting for less than 1% of head and neck malignancies.
  • SNMM is associated with a high 5-year mortality rate, underscoring the need for improved understanding and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and analyze survival, recurrence patterns, and prognostic factors in SNMM.
  • To identify key factors influencing patient outcomes in SNMM.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review and meta-analysis adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
  • Analysis of 90 studies encompassing 3347 SNMM patients, examining treatment modalities, survival rates, and recurrence data.

Main Results:

  • The 5-year overall survival for SNMM is poor at 30.35%.
  • Distant metastasis is common (44.65% recurrence-free survival at 5 years) and associated with worse outcomes.
  • Surgery with radiation therapy was the most common treatment, but positive margins did not significantly impact overall survival in most studies.

Conclusions:

  • Overall survival for SNMM remains critically low, with a significant proportion of patients experiencing distant failure.
  • Current treatment strategies have not substantially improved long-term survival.
  • Targeted immunotherapy presents a promising future direction for enhancing SNMM treatment efficacy and patient survival.