Superficial spreading and nodular melanoma (including amelanotic melanoma)

Abstract

The incidence of melanoma has increased over the last few decades, and mortality has only recently stabilized. In Central Europe its incidence has increased similarly to that in the United States, from 3-4 cases to 10-15 cases per 100,000 inhabitants per year. The highest incidence of melanoma is recorded in Australia and New Zealand oscillating between 40 and 60 cases per 100,000 inhabitants per year.1 In a recent study in Catalonia the incidence increased from 6.74 in 2000 to 8.64 in 2007 for all melanomas, with the Breslow thickness being stable during this period. The increase in invasive melanoma incidence in the elderly was remarkably up to 15.49 in the 60-64 year population.2 It is known that certain populations, such as men >60 years of age and lower socioeconomic status groups, face a greater burden from disease. Men have shown worse melanoma survival than women, and low socioeconomic status groups have increased levels of mortality.