title: Cutaneous melanoma: methods of biopsy and definitive surgical excision.
abstract: The proper method of biopsy and definitive surgical excision of cutaneous melanoma is vital for optimal patient outcome. Clearly, the present authors' understanding of the pathophysiology of cutaneous melanoma continues to change at a rapid pace. Indeed, as the present authors' research efforts begin to expose some of the mysteries of melanoma, so do they begin to better understand the intricacies of this dreaded cancer. This article will highlight methods of biopsy for melanoma and the management of the primary tumor. The present authors review current recommendations for excision margins for the primary tumor, usefulness of lymphoscintigraphy, timing of definitive surgical excision, and issues unique for head and neck melanoma.
authors.affiliation: Cutaneous Oncology Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, 33612, USA. rikerai@moffitt.usf.edu
authors.forename: Adam I
authors.initials: AI
authors.lastname: Riker
authors.forename: Frank
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Glass
authors.forename: Iriana
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Perez
authors.forename: C Wayne
authors.initials: CW
authors.lastname: Cruse
authors.forename: Jane
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Messina
authors.forename: Vernon K
authors.initials: VK
authors.lastname: Sondak
mesh_terms: D001706:Biopsy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008545:Melanoma / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D021701:Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*