2023-10-13 10:22:24
Pediatric melanoma is a rare and complicated subgroup of cancers that deserves special attention due to its unique characteristics. At the annual meeting of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV), Prof. Dr. Cristina Carrera from Hospital Clinic Barcelona discussed the different facets of pediatric melanoma and offered insight into the prevalence, risk factors, classifications and diagnostic challenges of this disease.
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Pediatric melanoma accounts for less than 2% of all pediatric cancers in Europe, and less than 2% of all melanoma cases are diagnosed before the age of 20. The incidence is exceptionally low, particularly before age 10, with an estimated one child per million affected, Carrera reports. However, the incidence rate increases significantly in adolescence, making it the most common age group for pediatric melanoma. It is important to recognize that pediatric melanoma is not a homogeneous entity; it is divided into three main categories:
Giant congenital melanocytic nevus:
This rare form of melanoma, which is associated with large congenital nevi, is a serious complication that primarily affects children born with giant nevi. This subtype is unrelated to sun exposure and is characterized by its unique characteristics.Conventional or adult-like melanoma:
The most common form of pediatric melanoma occurs in adolescents and young adults. The clinical, pathological and molecular features of this subtype are similar to those of adult melanoma, with a key difference being that melanoma associated with nevus occurs more frequently in the young population (80% vs. 30% in adults).Spitz-Melanom:
A less common variant that is distinct from conventional melanoma and is a separate entity among pediatric melanomas. Spitz melanoma is not nevus-associated. To view the content you must log in or register.
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