1. What is Melanoma Prognosis?

Melanoma prognosis estimates survival outcomes based on tumor characteristics including stage, thickness, and ulceration status according to AJCC (American Joint Committee on Cancer) guidelines.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses AJCC staging criteria:

Where:

• \( Stage \) — AJCC melanoma stage (I-IV)
• \( Thickness \) — Breslow thickness in millimeters
• \( Ulceration \) — Presence or absence of ulceration

Explanation: The calculation incorporates validated prognostic factors from large melanoma studies.

3. Importance of Prognosis Calculation

Details: Accurate prognosis estimation helps guide treatment decisions, surveillance intensity, and patient counseling.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter tumor thickness in mm, select appropriate stage and ulceration status. All values must be valid (thickness > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the most important prognostic factor?
A: Tumor thickness (Breslow depth) and stage are primary determinants, with ulceration being an important modifier.

Q2: How does stage affect prognosis?
A: Earlier stages (I/II) have better prognosis than advanced stages (III/IV), with 5-year survival ranging from >90% for stage I to <20% for stage IV.

Q3: Why is ulceration important?
A: Ulceration typically worsens prognosis by approximately one stage (e.g., a stage II ulcerated melanoma may have prognosis similar to stage III non-ulcerated).

Q4: Are there other important factors?
A: Yes, mitotic rate, lymph node involvement, distant metastases, and molecular markers also affect prognosis but aren't included in this basic calculator.

Q5: How often should prognosis be reassessed?
A: After any new diagnostic information (e.g., sentinel node biopsy results) or if recurrence is detected.