THE NEW-MEXICO MELANOMA REGISTRY - A MODEL OF A STATEWIDE COOPERATIVE PROGRAM

The prevalence of cutaneous melanoma is high among Anglo residents of New Mexico. In order to achieve consistency in diagnosis and pathologic staging, a melanoma registry was established in 1980 in conjunction with the University of New Mexico Cancer Center. The registry functions through pathology panel review of newly diagnosed melanomas combined with collection of clinical data. Reports are submitted gratis to contributing pathologists and dermatologists. The melanoma registry works closely with the population-based New Mexico Tumor Registry. Acceptance of the melanoma registry has been excellent. We believe that in excess of 90% of new melanoma cases in the state are sent spontaneously to the registry. During 1986 approximately 150 melanomas were reviewed together with 450 atypical, benign pigmented lesions such as dysplastic nevi. In addition to pathology consultations, the registry serves an educational function and has potential for a variety of epidemiologic studies.