Disease-free survival was better in patients with ulcerated melanoma.
In several studies, high-risk melanoma patients treated with interferon (IFN) α-2b have been shown to have better disease-free survival than nonrecipients, but an effect on overall survival is unproven. Investigators used data collected in the Sunbelt Melanoma Trial, a 79-center randomized, controlled trial of observation versus adjuvant IFN for melanoma, to evaluate whether such treatment is particularly beneficial for patients with ulcerated melanoma.
Rates of disease-free and overall survival were compared in 1311 patients without ulceration of their primary melanoma and 458 with ulceration. Overall survival was not affected by IFN therapy in either subgroup. However, in the ulceration group, patients who received IFN had significantly be…
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresConsultant / Advisory boardAmway
Editorial boards JAMA Dermatology; Dermatologic Surgery; Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology; Lasers in Medical Science; Skin Therapy Letter
Leadership positions in professional societies American Academy of Dermatology (Chair, Health Care Finance Committee); American College of Mohs Surgery (Board of Directors); American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (Board of Directors)
DisclosuresConsultant / Advisory boardAmway
Editorial boards JAMA Dermatology; Dermatologic Surgery; Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology; Lasers in Medical Science; Skin Therapy Letter
Leadership positions in professional societies American Academy of Dermatology (Chair, Health Care Finance Committee); American College of Mohs Surgery (Board of Directors); American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (Board of Directors)