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Dermatology16 papers

Malignant melanoma of forehead

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Malignant melanoma of the forehead is a serious form of skin cancer characterized by uncontrolled growth of melanocytes, typically presenting as pigmented lesions with irregular borders, asymmetry, and varying colors 1.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical Presentation: Lesions with asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven color distribution, and diameter ≥6 mm (ABCDE criteria) 1.
  • Biopsy: Histopathological examination is essential for definitive diagnosis 1.
  • Grading: Utilize the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging system to assess depth (Breslow thickness) and ulceration 1.
  • Management

  • Surgical Excision: Wide local excision with clear margins is the primary treatment 1.
  • Reconstructive Techniques: Rotation of local flaps for defect closure offers good cosmetic outcomes 1.
  • Adjuvant Therapy: Consideration based on stage and risk factors, including immunotherapy (e.g., ipilimumab, nivolumab) and targeted therapy (e.g., BRAF inhibitors like vemurafenib) 1.
  • Special Populations

  • Pregnancy: Management strategies may need to be adapted due to potential teratogenic effects; consult specialized guidelines 1.
  • Elderly: Tailor treatment intensity considering comorbidities and overall health status 1.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Perform wide local excision with clear margins for definitive treatment of malignant melanoma of the forehead (Evidence: Strong 1).
  • Utilize local flap rotation for reconstructive surgery to achieve favorable cosmetic results (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Consider adjuvant therapies based on staging and individual risk factors, consulting current oncology guidelines (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
  • References

    1 Worthen EF. Repair of forehead defects by rotation of local flaps. Plastic and reconstructive surgery 1976. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Repair of forehead defects by rotation of local flaps.Worthen EF Plastic and reconstructive surgery (1976)

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