[Melanoma].

Abstract

The definition of the TNM classification and staging system of malignant melanoma have been fundamentally revised. Moreover, several clinical guidelines for the management of this neoplasm were recently proposed. Advances in surgical procedures are excision of primary lesions with narrow margin and introduction of sentinel node biopsy, which contribute to maintain the good quality of life of patients. The significance of high-dose interferon-alpha as adjuvant therapy is still controversial. No effective chemotherapy or biotherapy has been established to date, however, interesting new findings were recently reported in the fields of immunotherapy and molecular targeting therapy.