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Current Geriatrics Reports
Published in: Current Geriatrics Reports 4/2020

01-12-2020 | Melanoma | Dermatology and Wound Care (C Sayed, Section Editor)

Melanoma Diagnosis and Treatment in the Elderly

Authors: Kayla M. Babbush, Shadi Damanpour

Published in: Current Geriatrics Reports | Issue 4/2020

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

While the overall incidence of melanoma has remained stable in younger populations, the rate of diagnosis in the elderly is rising. Diagnosis and treatment of melanoma presents a major public health challenge for providers, patients, and caretakers. In this paper, we address unique considerations for diagnosis and management of melanoma in the elderly population.

Recent Findings

There are clinically significant differences in the presentation of melanoma in the elderly. Diagnosis is often delayed, thus screening is crucial and should focus on the atypical presentation of melanoma in this population. Sentinel lymph node biopsy may provide useful prognostic information, although nodal involvement is less likely in the elderly due to age-related changes in lymphatic flow. Several clinical trials have supported the efficacy and better side effect profile of targeted melanoma therapies compared with chemotherapy. Additionally, topical and local treatment, including imiquimod and talimogene laherparepvec, are useful for older patients who cannot tolerate systemic therapy or surgical excision.

Summary

With a limited number of clinical trials in the elderly, and a steady increase in the incidence of disease, there is a need for development of better diagnostic and management strategies for older patients with melanoma. Elderly patients are underrepresented in clinical trials, and trial outcomes from younger patients may not be directly applicable to an older population. This population requires personalized care and consideration of toxic adverse effects on quality of life.
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Metadata
Title
Melanoma Diagnosis and Treatment in the Elderly
Authors
Kayla M. Babbush
Shadi Damanpour
Publication date
01-12-2020
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Geriatrics Reports / Issue 4/2020
Electronic ISSN: 2196-7865
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13670-020-00330-w

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Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

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WHO estimates that half of all patients worldwide are non-adherent to their prescribed medication. The consequences of poor adherence can be catastrophic, on both the individual and population level.

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