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Huang Y, Fleming P, Fung K, Chan AW. Association between dermatology follow-up and melanoma survival: A population-based cohort study. J Am Acad Dermatol 2024:S0190-9622(24)00372-4. [PMID: 38368952 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2024.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Guidelines recommend that patients with melanoma undergo dermatologic examination at least annually. Adherence to follow-up and its impact on survival are unclear. OBJECTIVE To determine the level of adherence to annual dermatologic follow-up in patients with primary cutaneous melanoma, identify predictors for better adherence, and evaluate whether adherence was associated with melanoma-related mortality. METHODS Retrospective inception cohort analysis of adults with primary invasive melanoma in Ontario, Canada from 2010 to 2013 with follow-up until December 31, 2018. RESULTS Adherence to dermatologic follow-up was variable with only 28.0% of patients seeing a dermatologist at least annually (median follow-up 5.0 years). Younger age, female sex, higher income, greater access to dermatology care, stage 2/3 melanoma, prior keratinocyte carcinoma, fewer comorbidities, and any outpatient visit in the 12 months prior to melanoma diagnosis were predictors for adherence. Greater adherence to annual dermatology visits was associated with reduced melanoma-specific mortality compared with lower levels of adherence (adjusted hazard ratio 0.64, 95% CI 0.52-0.78). LIMITATIONS Observational study design and inability to identify skin examinations performed by non-dermatologists. CONCLUSION Adherence to annual dermatology visits after melanoma diagnosis was low. Greater adherence may promote better patient survival but warrants confirmation in further research including randomized trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanshen Huang
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Patrick Fleming
- Division of Dermatology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - An-Wen Chan
- Division of Dermatology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Medcalf E, Taylor A, Turner R, Espinoza D, Bell KJL. Can patient-led surveillance detect subsequent new primary or recurrent melanomas and reduce the need for routinely scheduled follow up? Statistical analysis plan for the MEL-SELF randomised controlled trial. Contemp Clin Trials 2022; 117:106761. [PMID: 35439647 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2022.106761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The MEL-SELF trial is a randomised controlled trial of patient-led surveillance compared to clinician-led surveillance in people treated for localised cutaneous melanoma (stage 0, I, II). The primary trial aim is to determine if patient led-surveillance compared to clinician-led surveillance increases the proportion of participants who are diagnosed with a new primary or recurrent melanoma at a fast-tracked unscheduled clinic visit. The secondary outcomes include time to diagnosis of any skin cancer, psychosocial outcomes, acceptability, and resource use. OBJECTIVE The objective of this report is to outline and publish the pre-determined statistical analysis plan before the database lock and the start of analysis. METHODS/DESIGN The statistical analysis plan describes the overall analysis principles, including how participants will be included in each analysis, the presentation of the results, adjustments for covariates, the primary and secondary outcomes, and their respective analyses. In addition, we present the planned sensitivity and subgroup analyses. A separate analysis plan will be published for health economic outcomes. RESULTS The MEL-SELF statistical analysis plan has been designed to minimize bias in estimating effects of the intervention on primary and secondary outcomes. By pre-specifying analyses, we ensure the study's integrity and believability while enabling the reproducibility of the final analysis. CONCLUSION This detailed statistical analysis plan will help to ensure transparency of reporting of results from the MEL-SELF trial. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12621000176864. Registered 18 February 2021, https://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12621000176864.aspx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie Medcalf
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Aiya Taylor
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Robin Turner
- Biostatistics Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David Espinoza
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Katy J L Bell
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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3
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Ackermann DM, Dieng M, Medcalf E, Jenkins MC, van Kemenade CH, Janda M, Turner RM, Cust AE, Morton RL, Irwig L, Guitera P, Soyer HP, Mar V, Hersch JK, Low D, Low C, Saw RPM, Scolyer RA, Drabarek D, Espinoza D, Azzi A, Lilleyman AM, Smit AK, Murchie P, Thompson JF, Bell KJL. Assessing the Potential for Patient-led Surveillance After Treatment of Localized Melanoma (MEL-SELF): A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Dermatol 2022; 158:33-42. [PMID: 34817543 PMCID: PMC8771298 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2021.4704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Patient-led surveillance is a promising new model of follow-up care following excision of localized melanoma. OBJECTIVE To determine whether patient-led surveillance in patients with prior localized primary cutaneous melanoma is as safe, feasible, and acceptable as clinician-led surveillance. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This was a pilot for a randomized clinical trial at 2 specialist-led clinics in metropolitan Sydney, Australia, and a primary care skin cancer clinic managed by general practitioners in metropolitan Newcastle, Australia. The participants were 100 patients who had been treated for localized melanoma, owned a smartphone, had a partner to assist with skin self-examination (SSE), and had been routinely attending scheduled follow-up visits. The study was conducted from November 1, 2018, to January 17, 2020, with analysis performed from September 1, 2020, to November 15, 2020. INTERVENTION Participants were randomized (1:1) to 6 months of patient-led surveillance (the intervention comprised usual care plus reminders to perform SSE, patient-performed dermoscopy, teledermatologist assessment, and fast-tracked unscheduled clinic visits) or clinician-led surveillance (the control was usual care). MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was the proportion of eligible and contacted patients who were randomized. Secondary outcomes included patient-reported outcomes (eg, SSE knowledge, attitudes, and practices, psychological outcomes, other health care use) and clinical outcomes (eg, clinic visits, skin surgeries, subsequent new primary or recurrent melanoma). RESULTS Of 326 patients who were eligible and contacted, 100 (31%) patients (mean [SD] age, 58.7 [12.0] years; 53 [53%] men) were randomized to patient-led (n = 49) or clinician-led (n = 51) surveillance. Data were available on patient-reported outcomes for 66 participants and on clinical outcomes for 100 participants. Compared with clinician-led surveillance, patient-led surveillance was associated with increased SSE frequency (odds ratio [OR], 3.5; 95% CI, 0.9 to 14.0) and thoroughness (OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 0.8 to 5.7), had no detectable adverse effect on psychological outcomes (fear of cancer recurrence subscale score; mean difference, -1.3; 95% CI, -3.1 to 0.5), and increased clinic visits (risk ratio [RR], 1.5; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.1), skin lesion excisions (RR, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.6 to 2.0), and subsequent melanoma diagnoses and subsequent melanoma diagnoses (risk difference, 10%; 95% CI, -2% to 23%). New primary melanomas and 1 local recurrence were diagnosed in 8 (16%) of the participants in the intervention group, including 5 (10%) ahead of routinely scheduled visits; and in 3 (6%) of the participants in the control group, with none (0%) ahead of routinely scheduled visits (risk difference, 10%; 95% CI, 2% to 19%). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This pilot of a randomized clinical trial found that patient-led surveillance after treatment of localized melanoma appears to be safe, feasible, and acceptable. Experiences from this pilot study have prompted improvements to the trial processes for the larger trial of the same intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION http://anzctr.org.au Identifier: ACTRN12616001716459.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deonna M. Ackermann
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mbathio Dieng
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ellie Medcalf
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Marisa C. Jenkins
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Monika Janda
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Robin M. Turner
- Biostatistics Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand
| | - Anne E. Cust
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The Daffodil Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachael L. Morton
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Les Irwig
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Pascale Guitera
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - H. Peter Soyer
- Dermatology Research Centre, The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Victoria Mar
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jolyn K. Hersch
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Donald Low
- Cancer Voices New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cynthia Low
- Cancer Voices New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robyn P. M. Saw
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard A. Scolyer
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- New South Wales Health Pathology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Dorothy Drabarek
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Espinoza
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anthony Azzi
- Newcastle Skin Check, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Amelia K. Smit
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The Daffodil Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter Murchie
- Academic Primary Care Research Group, Division of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - John F. Thompson
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katy J. L. Bell
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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4
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Ackermann DM, Smit AK, Janda M, van Kemenade CH, Dieng M, Morton RL, Turner RM, Cust AE, Irwig L, Hersch JK, Guitera P, Soyer HP, Mar V, Saw RPM, Low D, Low C, Drabarek D, Espinoza D, Emery J, Murchie P, Thompson JF, Scolyer RA, Azzi A, Lilleyman A, Bell KJL. Can patient-led surveillance detect subsequent new primary or recurrent melanomas and reduce the need for routinely scheduled follow-up? A protocol for the MEL-SELF randomised controlled trial. Trials 2021; 22:324. [PMID: 33947444 PMCID: PMC8096155 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05231-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most subsequent new primary or recurrent melanomas might be self-detected if patients are trained to systematically self-examine their skin and have access to timely medical review (patient-led surveillance). Routinely scheduled clinic visits (clinician-led surveillance) is resource-intensive and has not been shown to improve health outcomes; fewer visits may be possible if patient-led surveillance is shown to be safe and effective. The MEL-SELF trial is a randomised controlled trial comparing patient-led surveillance with clinician-led surveillance in people who have been previously treated for localised melanoma. METHODS Stage 0/I/II melanoma patients (n = 600) from dermatology, surgical, or general practice clinics in NSW Australia, will be randomised (1:1) to the intervention (patient-led surveillance, n = 300) or control (usual care, n = 300). Patients in the intervention will undergo a second randomisation 1:1 to polarised (n = 150) or non-polarised (n = 150) dermatoscope. Patient-led surveillance comprises an educational booklet, skin self-examination (SSE) instructional videos; 3-monthly email/SMS reminders to perform SSE; patient-performed dermoscopy with teledermatologist feedback; clinical review of positive teledermoscopy through fast-tracked unscheduled clinic visits; and routinely scheduled clinic visits following each clinician's usual practice. Clinician-led surveillance comprises an educational booklet and routinely scheduled clinic visits following each clinician's usual practice. The primary outcome, measured at 12 months, is the proportion of participants diagnosed with a subsequent new primary or recurrent melanoma at an unscheduled clinic visit. Secondary outcomes include time from randomisation to diagnosis (of a subsequent new primary or recurrent melanoma and of a new keratinocyte cancer), clinicopathological characteristics of subsequent new primary or recurrent melanomas (including AJCC stage), psychological outcomes, and healthcare use. A nested qualitative study will include interviews with patients and clinicians, and a costing study we will compare costs from a societal perspective. We will compare the technical performance of two different models of dermatoscope (polarised vs non-polarised). DISCUSSION The findings from this study may inform guidance on evidence-based follow-up care, that maximises early detection of subsequent new primary or recurrent melanoma and patient wellbeing, while minimising costs to patients, health systems, and society. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12621000176864 . Registered on 18 February 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deonna M Ackermann
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Amelia K Smit
- Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Monika Janda
- Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Cathelijne H van Kemenade
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mbathio Dieng
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rachael L Morton
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Robin M Turner
- Biostatistics Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anne E Cust
- Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Les Irwig
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jolyn K Hersch
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Pascale Guitera
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Sydney Melanoma Diagnostic Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - H Peter Soyer
- Dermatology Research Centre, The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,Department of Dermatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Victoria Mar
- Victorian Melanoma Service, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia.,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Robyn P M Saw
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Division of Surgery, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - Dorothy Drabarek
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - David Espinoza
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jon Emery
- Centre for Cancer Research, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter Murchie
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - John F Thompson
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Division of Surgery, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Richard A Scolyer
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Tissue Pathology and Diagnostic Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony Azzi
- Newcastle Skin Check, Newcastle, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Alister Lilleyman
- Newcastle Skin Check, Newcastle, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Katy J L Bell
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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GPs' involvement in diagnosing, treating, and referring patients with suspected or confirmed primary cutaneous melanoma: a qualitative study. BJGP Open 2020; 4:bjgpopen20X101028. [PMID: 32295791 PMCID: PMC7330208 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpopen20x101028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Australia, melanoma is managed in primary and secondary care settings. An individual concerned about a suspicious lesion typically presents first to their GP. Aim To identify factors influencing GPs’ decisions to diagnose, treat, or refer patients with suspected melanoma. Design & setting Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 23 GPs working in general practice or skin cancer clinics in Australia. Method The semi-structured interviews were audio-recorded, de-identified, and professionally transcribed. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Results Considerable variation existed in GPs’ self-reported confidence and involvement in melanoma management. Multiple factors were identified as influencing GPs’ decisions to diagnose, treat, or refer patients with suspected or confirmed melanoma. Health system level factors included the overlapping roles of GPs and specialists, and access to and/or availability of specialists. Practice level factors included opportunities for formal and informal training, and having a GP with a special interest in skin cancer within their practice. GP and patient level factors included the GP’s clinical interests, the clinical features (for example, site and size) and histopathology of the suspected melanoma, eligibility for possible sentinel lymph node biopsy, and patient preferences. For some GPs, concerns over misdiagnosis and the option of referring patients at any stage in the melanoma management continuum appeared to affect their interest and confidence in melanoma management. Conclusion GP involvement in melanoma patient care can extend well beyond cancer screening, prevention and supportive care roles to include provision of definitive melanoma patient management. GPs with an interest in being involved in melanoma management should be encouraged and supported to develop the skills needed to manage these patients, and to refer when appropriate.
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Lim WY, Morton RL, Turner RM, Jenkins MC, Guitera P, Irwig L, Webster AC, Dieng M, Saw RPM, Low D, Low C, Bell KJL. Patient Preferences for Follow-up After Recent Excision of a Localized Melanoma. JAMA Dermatol 2019; 154:420-427. [PMID: 29490373 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2018.0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Importance The standard model of follow-up posttreatment of localized melanoma relies on clinician detection of recurrent or new melanoma, through routinely scheduled clinics (clinician-led surveillance). An alternative model is to increase reliance on patient detection of melanoma, with fewer scheduled visits and increased support for patients' skin self-examination (SSE) (eg, using smartphone apps to instruct, prompt and record SSE, and facilitate teledermatology; patient-led surveillance). Objective To determine the proportion of adults treated for localized melanoma who prefer the standard scheduled visit frequency (as per Australian guideline recommendations) or fewer scheduled visits (adapted from the Melanoma Follow-up [MELFO] study of reduced follow-up). Design, Setting, and Participants This survey study used a telephone interview for surveillance following excision of localized melanoma at an Australian specialist center. We invited a random sample of 400 patients who had completed treatment for localized melanoma in 2014 to participate. They were asked about their preferences for scheduled follow-up, and experience of follow-up in the past 12 months. Those with a recurrent or new primary melanoma diagnosed by the time of interview (0.8-1.7 years since first diagnosis) were asked about how it was first detected and treated. SSE practices were also assessed. Main Outcomes and Measures Proportion preferring standard vs fewer scheduled clinic visits, median delay between detection and treatment of recurrent or new primary melanoma, and SSE practices. Results Of the 262 people who agreed to be interviewed, the mean (SD) age was 64.3 (14.3) years, and 93 (36%) were women. Among the 230 people who did not have a recurrent or new primary melanoma, 149 vs 81 preferred the standard vs fewer scheduled clinic visits option (70% vs 30% after adjusting for sampling frame). Factors independently associated with preferring fewer visits were a higher disease stage, melanoma on a limb, living with others, not having private health insurance, and seeing a specialist for another chronic condition. The median delay between first detection and treatment of recurrent or new primary melanoma was 7 and 3 weeks, respectively. Only 8% missed a scheduled visit, while 40% did not perform SSE or did so at greater than 3-month intervals. Conclusions and Relevance Some patients with melanoma may prefer fewer scheduled visits, if they are supported to do SSE and there is rapid clinical review of anything causing concern (patient-led surveillance).
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Yin Lim
- Clinical Research Centre Perak, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia.,School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachael L Morton
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robin M Turner
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Marisa C Jenkins
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Pascale Guitera
- Melanoma Institute Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Discipline of Dermatology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,The Sydney Melanoma Diagnostic Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Les Irwig
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Angela C Webster
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mbathio Dieng
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robyn P M Saw
- Melanoma Institute Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Discipline of Surgery, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Division of Surgery, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Donald Low
- Cancer Voices NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cynthia Low
- Cancer Voices NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katy J L Bell
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Centre for Evidence Based Practice, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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Nijhuis AAG, Dieng M, Khanna N, Lord SJ, Dalton J, Menzies AM, Turner RM, Allen J, Saw RPM, Nieweg OE, Thompson JF, Morton RL. False-Positive Results and Incidental Findings with Annual CT or PET/CT Surveillance in Asymptomatic Patients with Resected Stage III Melanoma. Ann Surg Oncol 2019; 26:1860-1868. [DOI: 10.1245/s10434-019-07311-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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8
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Lim WY, Turner RM, Morton RL, Jenkins MC, Irwig L, Webster AC, Dieng M, Saw RPM, Guitera P, Low D, Low C, Bell KJL. Use of shared care and routine tests in follow-up after treatment for localised cutaneous melanoma. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:477. [PMID: 29925350 PMCID: PMC6011416 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-3291-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients may decide to undertake shared care with a general practitioner (GP) during follow-up after treatment for localised melanoma. Routine imaging tests for surveillance may be commonly used despite no evidence of clinical utility. This study describes the frequency of shared care and routine tests during follow-up after treatment for localised melanoma. METHODS We randomly sampled 351 people with localised melanoma [American Joint Cancer Committee (AJCC) substages 0 - II] who had not had recurrent or new primary melanoma diagnosed from a total of 902 people diagnosed and treated for localised melanoma at a specialist centre in 2014. We interviewed participants by telephone about their experience of follow-up in the past year, and documented the proportion of patients who were undertaking shared care follow-up with a GP. We also recorded the frequency and type of investigations during follow-up. We calculated weighted estimates that are representative of the full inception cohort. RESULTS Of the 351 people who were invited to participate, 230 (66%) people consented to the telephone interview. The majority undertook shared care follow-up with a GP (61%). People who choose to have shared care follow-up with a GP are more likely to be male (p = 0.006), have lower AJCC stage (p for trend = 0.02), reside in more remote areas (p for trend< 0.001), and are less likely to have completed secondary school (p < 0.001). Few people saw a non-doctor health practitioner as part of their follow-up (9%). Many people report undergoing tests for melanoma, much of which may be routine tests for surveillance (37%). CONCLUSIONS The majority of people treated for a first primary localised melanoma at a specialist centre, without recurrent or new melanoma, choose to undertake shared care follow-up with a GP. Many appear to have routine diagnostic imaging as part of their melanoma surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Yin Lim
- Clinical Research Centre Perak, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Ipoh, Perak Malaysia
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Robin M. Turner
- Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Rachael L. Morton
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Marisa C. Jenkins
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Les Irwig
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Angela C. Webster
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Mbathio Dieng
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Robyn P. M. Saw
- Melanoma Institute Australia, Sydney, NSW Australia
- Discipline of Surgery, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
- Division of Surgery, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW Australia
| | - Pascale Guitera
- Melanoma Institute Australia, Sydney, NSW Australia
- Discipline of Dermatology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
- The Sydney Melanoma Diagnostic Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW Australia
| | - Donald Low
- Cancer Voices NSW, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | | | - Katy J. L. Bell
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
- Centre for Evidence Based Practice, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD Australia
- The University of Sydney, Rm 333 Edward Ford Building (A27), Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
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Madronio CM, Armstrong BK, Watts CG, Goumas C, Morton RL, Curtin A, Menzies SW, Mann GJ, Thompson JF, Cust AE. Doctors' recognition and management of melanoma patients' risk: An Australian population-based study. Cancer Epidemiol 2016; 45:32-39. [PMID: 27689254 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2016.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Guidelines recommend that health professionals identify and manage individuals at high risk of developing melanoma, but there is limited population-based evidence demonstrating real-world practices. OBJECTIVE A population-based, observational study was conducted in the state of New South Wales, Australia to determine doctors' knowledge of melanoma patients' risk and to identify factors associated with better identification and clinical management. METHODS Data were analysed for 1889 patients with invasive, localised melanoma in the Melanoma Patterns of Care study. This study collected data on all melanoma diagnoses notified to the state's cancer registry during a 12-month period from 2006 to 2007, as well as questionnaire data from the doctors involved in their care. RESULTS Three-quarters (74%) of patients had doctors who were aware of their risk factor status with respect to personal and family history of melanoma and the presence of many moles. Doctors working in general practice, skin cancer clinics and dermatology settings had better knowledge of patients' risk factors than plastic surgeons. Doctors were 15% more likely to know the family history of younger melanoma patients (<40years) than of those ≥80 years (95% confidence interval 4-26%). Early detection-related follow-up advice was more likely to be given to younger patients, by doctors aware of their patients' risk status, by doctors practising in plastic surgery, dermatology and skin cancer clinic settings, and by female doctors. CONCLUSION Both patient-related and doctor-related factors were associated with doctors' recognition and management of melanoma patients' risk and could be the focus of strategies for improving care.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Madronio
- Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Australia.
| | - B K Armstrong
- Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - C G Watts
- Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - C Goumas
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney, Australia
| | - R L Morton
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - A Curtin
- School of Public Health, Rural Health Northern Rivers, Lismore, Australia
| | - S W Menzies
- Discipline of Dermatology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Australia; The Sydney Melanoma Diagnostic Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - G J Mann
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney, Australia; Centre for Cancer Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - J F Thompson
- Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney, Australia; Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - A E Cust
- Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Australia; Melanoma Institute Australia, The University of Sydney, North Sydney, Australia
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