At present, the decision regarding whether to recommend SLNB in a patient with a thin melanoma is based upon a general gestalt, said Dr. Johnson. He and his colleagues have received a grant to study more than 2,000 cases of thin melanoma in an effort to develop a system for weighting the individual risk factors.
“As dermatologists – you, me, we – should be one of the lead dogs with respect to melanoma advancement, knowledge, management, and guidance. To do that most effectively, you must learn from and work closely with other specialists – collegially, collaboratively, and humbly,” he concluded.
Dr. Johnson reported having no financial conflicts of interest regarding his talk.