BACKGROUND: Melanoma is a malignant tumor ranked as the top cause of skin cancer death and is increasing in incidence in most races. Rarity and atypical presentation in Non-Caucasians lead to delayed diagnosis and poor survival rates in these populations. This is the first study in the Philippines to document and describe both clinical and histopathologic profile of melanoma in Filipinos. Data gathered and analyzed may be used as basis for future research on prevention and treatment of this deadly disease among Filipinos.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the epidemiology, clinical and histopathologic characteristics of melanoma patients in the Philippine General Hospital.
METHODS: Melanoma patient records and biopsies from the Department of Laboratories-Pathology Services and Section of Dermatology- Dermatopathology Unit of the Philippine General Hospital from 2004 to 2009 were reviewed.
RESULTS: Fifty-eight melanoma cases were identified. Based on the medical records retrieved, 35% were males and 23% females, while 42% had missing information. Most were in the fifth decade with a mean age of 52.8 years. The most common sites were the feet and trunk. Seven patients had recorded metastasis. The most common histopathologic characteristics noted was presence of angiolymphoid spread (70%), followed by presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (42%), ulceration (37%), high mitotic rate (35%), neurotropism (14%) and co-existing nevus (2%). Vertical growth phase was seen in 49% while 16% had a radial growth phase.
CONCLUSION: Melanoma has a lower prevalence rate in the population studied, but most presented with clinical and histopathologic features consistent with advanced stages.