Malignant melanoma in a Nigerian tertiary hospital

Abstract

Background: Malignant melanoma is a neoplasm of melanocytes which usually arises from the skin and other parts of the body where melanocytes exist. The incidence is low in black Africa and occurs mostly in the extremities. Surgery is the main stay of treatment for localised disease.
Methodology: A 5-year retrospective study of patients with histological diagnosis of malignant melanoma at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Results: A total of 14 patients with 15 lesions of cutaneous malignant melanoma were managed during the study period. Their age range was 42-85years, and the female:male ratio was 2:1. Plantar melanoma was the most common occurrence, and only 3 patients had previous history of trauma. Surgery was the mainstay of treatment.
Conclusion: Malignant melanoma remains a rare condition. Sole of the foot is the most common site.

Keywords: Dacarbazine, plantar melanoma, wide local excision