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nodular melanoma
lentigo maligna (melanoma-in-situ frequently on the face and arms of the elderly)
melanoma-in-situ
Any of the above types may produce melanin (and be dark in colour) or not (and be
amelanotic - not dark). Similarly any subtype may show desmoplasia (dense fibrous reaction
with neurotropism) which is a marker of aggressive behaviour and a tendency to local
recurrence.
Elsewhere:
mucosal melanoma
uveal melanoma
metastasis, the cancer is generally considered incurable. The five year survival
rate is less than 10%.[49] The median survival is 6 to 12 months. Treatment is
palliative, focusing on life-extension and quality of life. In some cases, patients
may live many months or even years with metastatic melanoma (depending on
the aggressiveness of the treatment). Metastases to skin and lungs have a better
prognosis. Metastases to brain, bone and liver are associated with a worse
prognosis.
People with metastatic melanoma may not feel like eating especially if they are
uncomfortable or tired. Foods may taste different than they did previously. Poor
appetite, nausea, or vomiting are all side-effects of melanoma. Good nutrition
however often helps people with cancer feel better and have more energy. [69]
However, only a small percentage of melanoma diagnosed yearly are metastatic.
Waiting for these symptoms to appear before seeking professional exam is not
recommended.
Treatment =
Surgery - Complete surgical excision with adequate margins and assessment for
the presence of detectable metastatic disease along with short- and long-term
followup is standard. Often this is done by a "wide local excision" (WLE) with 1 to
2 cm margins.