Dermatológia pre prax 2/2016

Etiopathogenesis and clinical diagnosis of melanoma

Melanoma belongs to the most malignant tumors. Its incidence is increasing every year worldwide. It appears to be distressing young population increasingly and presents nowadays a very important place among diseases affecting people of working age. Exposition to UV radiation, fair skin, the presence of dysplastic type of nevi and a positive family history represent the main risk factors for melanoma origination. The interactions between genetic and environmental risk factors, which support the melanoma formation, are still subject of research. Elimination of UV radiation and monitoring of high-risk patients are the main success factors that can reduce the increasing incidence of melanoma. Early and correct diagnosis of melanoma is the determining factor for the improvement of patient survival.

Keywords: melanoma, risk factors, diagnosis