Clinical Characteristics and Survival Data of Korean Malignant Melanoma in Situ:A Single-Center Experience with 156 Patients (2008∼2021)
- Author:
Jin Seon BANG
1
;
Jin Ho KIM
;
Do Young PARK
;
Seok-Jong LEE
;
Nam Gyoung HA
;
Dae-Lyong HA
;
Yong Hyun JANG
;
Weon Ju LEE
;
Jun Young KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Korean Journal of Dermatology
2026;64(1):10-17
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:Although patients with malignant melanoma in situ (MIS) have a high survival rate, a risk of recurrence or upstaging remains. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of its prognosis is essential for optimal patient management.
Objective:To investigate the clinical characteristics and survival outcomes of Korean patients with MIS.
Methods:We retrospectively analyzed the medical records and photographs of patients with MIS treated at a single tertiary center between 2008 and 2021. Clinical features, including diagnosis, treatment, recurrence, and mortality, were examined.
Results:A total of 156 patients with MIS were included, with a mean age of 59.3 years. The most common subtype was acral lentiginous melanoma (80.8%). Delayed diagnosis was associated with subungual MIS (SUMis; p ＜0.05). Among the subtypes other than SUMis, 77.3% met three or more of the ABCD criteria for melanoma.Hutchinson’s sign was observed in 67.3% of cases of SUMis. Ulceration was present in only two cases (1.3%).Recurrence occurred in nine patients (5.8%), with four (2.6%) experiencing relapse after 5 years. Upstaging was observed in two patients (1.3%) due to intralymphatic or regional nodal metastasis occurring at 19 and 10 months post-treatment. The 5-year and 10-year melanoma-specific/overall survival rates were 100.0/96.9% and 100.0/89.0%, respectively.
Conclusion:Although the survival rates of patients with MIS are high, long-term and close follow-up after treatment is essential because of the possibility of late recurrence and rare instances of intralymphatic or regional nodal metastasis. Additionally, the presence of clinical ulceration is highly suggestive of invasive melanoma.
