Oral melanoma and other pigmented lesions of the oral cavity

Malignant melanoma is increasing in incidence. The rate of survival from cutaneous (involving skin) melanoma has increased because of earlier diagnoses. The expected outcome of patients with oral melanoma is still poor, possibly because of delayed detection. There is also very limited information available on oral melanoma, and not enough emphasis is placed on the importance of oral cavity examination. Early diagnosis of oral melanoma is dependent on the ability of clinicians to recognize all pigmented lesions of the oral cavity. The oral melanoma may be mistaken for a birthmark; oral melanotic macules (discolored patches in the mouth); a tattoo; physiologic pigmentation; melanoacanthomas (pigmented, benign skin tumors); or Kaposi's sarcoma. The clinical characteristics of these oral lesions are discussed. Oral melanoma is a cancer that has a detectable phase of growth, which can be easily seen. Examination of the mouth is painless, rapid, noninvasive, and can be performed by dermatologists without dental training. Examination of the oral cavity should be included in the routine skin examination. All discolored lesions of unknown origin that are located in the mouth should be carefully examined and possibly biopsied. Early detection and surgical removal of oral melanoma will help to improve survival from this cancer. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)