1. What is the MIA Model?

The MIA (Melanoma Institute Australia) model estimates melanoma risk based on tumor thickness, ulceration status, and mitotic rate. It provides a more accurate assessment of metastatic risk than traditional staging alone.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the MIA model equation:

Where:

• Thickness — Tumor thickness in millimeters (Breslow thickness)
• Ulceration — Presence or absence of tumor ulceration
• Mitotic Rate — Number of mitoses per square millimeter

Explanation: The equation accounts for these three key prognostic factors to stratify patients into risk categories.

3. Importance of Melanoma Risk Assessment

Details: Accurate risk assessment is crucial for determining appropriate follow-up schedules, considering adjuvant therapies, and counseling patients about their prognosis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter tumor thickness in mm (measured pathologically), select ulceration status, and enter mitotic rate from pathology report. All values must be valid.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use the MIA model instead of AJCC staging alone?
A: The MIA model provides more granular risk stratification within AJCC stages, particularly for stage I/II patients.

Q2: What are the risk categories?
A: Typically categorized as Low, Intermediate, and High risk based on the calculated score.

Q3: How is mitotic rate determined?
A: Counted in the dermal component of the melanoma in the area of highest mitotic activity per mm².

Q4: Are there limitations to this model?
A: The model may be less accurate for certain subtypes or locations of melanoma.

Q5: Should this replace clinical judgment?
A: No, this is a decision-support tool that should be used in conjunction with clinical assessment.