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Journal of Foot and Ankle Research
Published in: Journal of Foot and Ankle Research 1/2010

Open Access 01-12-2010 | Research

Development of a practical guide for the early recognition for malignant melanoma of the foot and nail unit

Authors: Ivan R Bristow, David AR de Berker

Published in: Journal of Foot and Ankle Research | Issue 1/2010

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Abstract

Background

Malignant melanoma is a rare but potentially lethal form of cancer which may arise on the foot. Evidence suggests that due to misdiagnosis and later recognition, foot melanoma has a poorer prognosis than cutaneous melanoma elsewhere.

Methods

A panel of experts representing podiatry and dermatologists with a special interest in skin oncology was assembled to review the literature and clinical evidence to develop a clinical guide for the early recognition of plantar and nail unit melanoma.

Results

A systematic review of the literature revealed little high quality data to inform the guide. However a significant number of case reports and series were available for analysis. From these, the salient features were collated and summarised into the guide. Based on these features a new acronym "CUBED" for foot melanoma was drafted and incorporated in the guide.

Conclusions

The use of this guide may help clinicians in their assessment of suspicious lesions on the foot (including the nail unit). Earlier detection of suspicious pedal lesions may facilitate earlier referral for expert assessment and definitive diagnosis. The guide is currently being field tested amongst practitioners.
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Metadata
Title
Development of a practical guide for the early recognition for malignant melanoma of the foot and nail unit
Authors
Ivan R Bristow
David AR de Berker
Publication date
01-12-2010
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Journal of Foot and Ankle Research / Issue 1/2010
Electronic ISSN: 1757-1146
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1757-1146-3-22

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