The Journal of the Louisiana State Medical Society : official organ of the Louisiana State Medical Society
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Historical Article
The Journal 150 & 100 years ago. December 1849 and 1899.
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The worldwide incidence of melanoma has reached epidemic proportions. One in 70 white Americans will develop melanoma in their lifetime. ⋯ The oil refining, ship-building, and agricultural industries demand outdoor work as well. Given that the incidence of melanoma in Louisiana has doubled over the past decade, a thorough knowledge of melanoma epidemiology, risk factors, and preventive strategies is necessary for physicians to reduce the mortality of this deadly disease.
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Four previously unreported cases of acral lentiginous melanoma of the foot treated by radiation are reported. All patients, for a variety of reasons, were not suitable for complete surgical excision. ⋯ Local response of the melanoma to radiotherapy was excellent and all patients were well palliated by the treatment. This treatment of acral lentiginous melanoma is recommended in patients with this diagnosis who, due to age, medical condition, or the presence of metastasis, are not suitable for standard treatment (surgery).