Surgical management of cutaneous melanoma of the head and neck

Surgical management of cutaneous malignant melanoma of the head and neck requires careful assessment of the primary lesion, use of appropriate biopsy and excision technique, and assessment of the regional lymphatics in all but the thinnest of lesions. Sustained disease-free survival can be achieved with appropriate initial intervention and serial follow-up. The major significant differences between current and past management are the advent and acceptance (or not) of sentinel node biopsy technique for intermediate thickness lesions without evidence of lymphadenopathy and an improved, validated, staging system. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to improving patient survival. They are best achieved through education of patients and clinicians.