Objectives: To describe the clinical features and histologic subtypes of cutaneous melanoma; to review the diagnosis, clinical, and pathologic staging of melanoma and the associated prognostic factors; and to review the treatment and management of AJCC stage I and II melanoma.
Data sources: Scientific and review articles, textbooks, and clinical practice.
Conclusions: Management of melanoma depends on accurate diagnosis, staging, and interpretation of prognostic factors. The treatment of choice for stage I and II melanoma is surgery, ranging from simple excision to lymph node dissection.
Implications for nursing practice: Familiarity with the clinical features of melanoma assists nurses in the screening and early detection of melanoma. Knowledge of AJCC staging guides education regarding treatment and lifelong surveillance.