Comparing Melanoma Invasiveness in Dermatologist- versus Patient-Detected Lesions: A Retrospective Chart Review. (16th July 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lamerson, Cindy L.; Eaton, Kristina; Sax, Joel L.; Kashani-Sabet, Mohammed
• Other Names: Argenziano Giuseppe Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of skin cancer. Volume 2012(2012)
• Publication Date: 2012-07-16
• Subjects: Skin -- Cancer -- Periodicals; Skin -- Cancer -- Diagnosis -- Periodicals; Skin -- Cancer -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Skin -- Cancer -- Treatment -- Periodicals; 616.99477005
• DOI: 10.1155/2012/187963
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-2905

Abstract

Abstract : This study examined whether patient-identified melanomas were more advanced than dermatologist-identified tumors at routine clinic visits, and whether a personal or family history of skin cancer was associated with patterns of detection. A retrospective chart review was performed on melanoma patients (N = 201 ) in a private dermatology clinic. Variables included age, gender, pattern of detection (i.e., patient or a board certified dermatologist), personal or family history of skin cancer, skin type, and previous sun exposure, as well as tumor location and severity. Dermatologist-diagnosed melanomas were less invasive (P < 0.0005 ), and more likely present on the chest, back, and legs (P < 0.01 ). Conversely, patient-identified lesions were more likely to occur on the face, neck and scalp, be associated with younger patients, and a family history of melanoma, but not other types of skin cancer (P < 0.01 ). In a post-hoc analysis examining these factors as predictors of tumor invasiveness, only diagnostic source was significant. Specifically, dermatologist-identified tumors were significantly less invasive than patient-identified tumors. Although age, family history, and tumor location played roles in the early detection of melanomas, the most important factor was diagnostic source. Thus, board-certified dermatologists play a key role in the early detection of malignant melanoma.