1. What is the MIA Melanoma Risk Model?

The MIA (Mayo Clinic) melanoma risk model estimates the risk of adverse outcomes based on tumor thickness, ulceration status, and mitotic rate. It helps clinicians stratify patients for appropriate follow-up and treatment.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the MIA model equation:

Where:

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

Explanation: The model combines these three key prognostic factors to estimate the risk of recurrence or metastasis.

3. Importance of Melanoma Risk Assessment

Details: Accurate risk stratification is crucial for determining appropriate surveillance intervals, considering adjuvant therapy, and counseling patients about prognosis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter tumor thickness in mm (measured pathologically), select ulceration status, and enter mitotic rate per mm². All values must be valid (thickness > 0, mitotic rate ≥ 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the key prognostic factors in melanoma?
A: The three most important are tumor thickness, ulceration status, and mitotic rate - which are all included in this model.

Q2: How is tumor thickness measured?
A: Breslow thickness is measured vertically in millimeters from the top of the granular layer to the deepest point of tumor invasion.

Q3: What constitutes a high mitotic rate?
A: Generally ≥1 mitosis/mm² is considered significant, with higher numbers indicating greater proliferative activity.

Q4: Are there limitations to this model?
A: The model may be less accurate for very thin or very thick melanomas, and doesn't account for all molecular markers.

Q5: How should risk percentages be interpreted?
A: Higher percentages indicate greater risk of adverse outcomes, but should be considered alongside clinical context and other factors.