Recurrence of cutaneous malignant melanoma after more than 20 years

Abstract

Late recurrence 10 years or more after treatment for localised cutaneous malignant melanoma is unusual. We present three cases with recurrences of cutaneous melanoma after 20 years or more. Two patients presented with a nodal recurrence and one patient with systemic disease. According to published reports, risk factors for late recurrence cannot be defined. Prognosis depends on the site of recurrence with short survival after distant metastases and longer survival after local and regional recurrence. Long-term follow up is advocated.

Key Words::

• Cutaneous melanoma
• recurrence
• prognosis

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.