Location and Risk Level of Melanoma

MELANOMAS that grow on the scalp or neck is more deadly. The conclusion was revealed in a study published the journal Archives of Dermatology, yesterday.

Researchers from the University of North Carolina (UNC), USA, found patients with melanoma - the most dangerous type of skin cancer - which grows on the scalp or neck had a death rate nearly doubled when compared with patients suffering from melanoma on the body other.

They analyzed data from 51,704 people in the U.S. who have a melanoma diagnosed in 1992-2003.
The result is a five-year survival rate of patients with melanoma on the scalp or neck of 83%. Conversely survival rate of patients with melanoma on other body parts is 92%.

Meanwhile, ten-year survival rate, respectively 76% and 89%. Dr. Nancy Thomas of the UNC School of Medicine suspect it was due to melanoma on the scalp and neck potentially greater spread to the brain.


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