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Pediatria pre prax 3/2012
Malignant melanoma in children
The aim of this article is to review distinctive features of malignant melanoma in pediatric population. About 2–3 % of melanomas occur in patients less than 20 years of age. Only 0.3 % of melanomas occur prior to puberty almost always arising in giant congenital melanocytic nevi. In children, the risk factors include in particular giant congenital melanocytic nevi, familial dysplastic nevus syndrome, positive family history, UV exposure, sunburn and immunodeficiency. Prompt pediatric and dermatological examination in every suspicious skin lesion is essential. Authors also discuss some differences in comparison with adult melanoma.
Keywords: malignant melanoma, melanocytic nevi, metastases.
