Is melanoma regression good or bad?
Such regression is generally considered an indicator of poor prognosis in melanoma, although a number of studies contradict this affirmation. In this review, we summarize the leading articles about the influence of regression on melanoma prognosis.
Can a melanoma regress?
From an immune point of view, melanoma, like other solid tumors, may regress spontaneously with partial or complete disappearance of tumor.
What is regression dermatology?
Tumor regression in pigmented lesions is a most interesting phenomenon occurring in both benign and malignant lesions. It basically represents an immune response to a cellular process no longer considered or recognized as essential or desirable.
What is regression of a nevus?
Regressing nevi are a relatively frequent observation, occurring in approximately 1% of the population. Most commonly, a regressing nevus is accompanied by a surrounding white depigmented area, called a halo. Halo nevi are most frequently observed in adolescents with an average age of onset of 15 years (1).
Can melanoma stay in situ for years?
There is a higher risk of invasive melanoma (i.e. seeding of melanoma beyond the epidermis) when moles are greater than the 6 mm diameter size….Table 2.
| Stage | Survival rate |
|---|---|
| 0 (in situ) | 99.9% 5-year survival; 98.9% 10-year survival |
| I/II | 89 to 95% 5-year survival |
| II | 45 to 79% 5-year survival |
| III | 24 to 70% 5-year survival |
What is the average size of a melanoma?
Melanomas are often larger than 6 mm (1/4 inch) in diameter. However, with increased awareness about early detection, about 30% of melanomas are found when they are less than 6 mm in diameter.
What does regression mean in melanoma?
Regression: Regression is described as being present or absent. If it is present, the extent of regression is identified. Regression describes an area where it appears there had been melanoma cells, but these have been destroyed by the immune system and replaced with inflammation or scar tissue.
What is regressive melanoma?
Regressive melanoma is a phenomenon characterized by partial or complete replacement of cutaneous melanoma by fibrotic structures as a result of local host immune response.