Work

Clinical, phenotypic and oncologic background differences in patients with sporadic, familial and multiple primary melanoma

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Sporadic Melanoma (SM) refers to patients with a single melanoma and no family history. Multiple Primary Melanoma (MPM) includes individuals with two or more primary melanomas. Familial Melanoma (FM) is defined as melanoma occurring in two first-degree relatives, or in three or more affected family members of any degree. Previous studies describe distinct phenotypic and clinical profiles in each subgroup, and a high proportion of personal and familial cancer history in patients with melanoma. OBJECTIVE: To compare phenotype, clinicopathological features, and oncological history in the three groups. METHODS: Data from 442 patients were collected and divided into three groups: FM, MPM, and SM. RESULTS: The MPM group showed light eye color (p = 0.01), more tan 50 nevi (p = 0.00014), actinic keratoses (p = 0.0025), and melanomas arising from pre-existing nevi (p = 0.0031). FM patients were younger (p = 0.01) and had a higher burden of personal and family cancer history, particularly breast neoplasms (p = 0.01). SM presented ≥ 2 mitoses (p ≤ 0.0001). Multivariate analysis confirmed independent associations specific to each group. STUDY LIMITATIONS: Long term-follow-up for secondary melanoma is needed for validation. Also, some participants may not recall certain family history. CONCLUSION: Patients with MPM display fair phototypes, numerous nevi, and markers of chronic sun damage, suggesting a central role of phenotype and cumulative UV exposure. In FM, younger age and a higher burden of oncologic history point toward an underlying genetic predisposition. SM is characterized by fewer nevi and aggressive melanomas, reflecting a distinct biological entity. These findings highlight the complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors.

Source: Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia

DOI: 10.1016/j.abd.2026.501472

Authors: Irene López-Riquelme, Silvestre Martínez-García, Marina Romero-Bravo, Miguel-Ángel Berciano-Guerrero

Institutions: Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Andalusian Centre for Nanomedicine and Biotechnology, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga

Language: English

Topic: Cutaneous Melanoma Detection and Management

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,700