Melanoma

Dr Susan Seifried discusses the 'Quality Statements to Guide Melanoma Diagnosis and Treatment in New Zealand' developed by the National Melanoma Working Group (NMWG) and MelNet. The latest guidance was released in September 2023. The statements describe what quality care for melanoma should look like in New Zealand based on current global best practice. They aim to reduce the incidence and improve outcomes for melanoma patients and their families.

Topics

intro
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what led to the development of the Quality Statements?
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How common is melanoma in New Zealand?
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Who is at the highest risk of melanoma?
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what about particular ethnic groups?
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what validated tools should primary care practitioners use to risk stratify patients?
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is population-based skin screening recommended?
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how can primary care providers advise patients on melanoma prevention?
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sun screen top tips
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what are the recommended prevention strategies for schools, communities, and workplaces?
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who should undergo regular skin checks, and what training is required for professionals who perform these checks?
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how important is dermatoscopy in diagnosing melanoma, and what options are available for those not proficient in it?
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the key features of concerning lesions, using the ABCDEF framework?
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if a lesion is concerning, what should be the next steps in diagnosis and treatment?
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how safe and effective are phone-based apps for melanoma assessment?
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once a biopsy confirms melanoma, how quickly should a patient be seen, and by whom?
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what can patients expect next?
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who should ideally oversee the follow-up for melanoma patients?
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take-home messgaes
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Take home messages

prevention education is key - sun smart behaviour
early detection - be observant of your patients and learn to use a dermatoscope
an excisional biopsy with 2mm margin and a primary closure is the gold standard
refer on before doing wide local excisions if its past stage 1b or if you're unsure
please use the quality statements found through MelNet

Resources

quality statements MelNet website
early detection of melanoma bpac NZ
skin check apps Healthify
risk prediction tools Melanoma Institute Australia

Presenter

Susan Seifried

General and Endoscopic Surgeon

Susan is a general and endoscopic surgeon based at Nelson Marlborough Hospital in New Zealand. She is the current Chair of the National Melanoma Working Group, which is responsible for maintaining the Quality Statements to Guide Melanoma Diagnosis and Treatment in New Zealand.