Understanding Your Melanoma Pathology Report

The pathology report for melanoma will be scientific and perhaps difficult to understand, however, you should ask for a copy to keep in your files. It will contain information that may provide an indication of the necessary tests, melanoma therapies, and prognosis of your melanoma diagnosis. 

Factors on a Melanoma Pathology Report

The following factors may be present on your report: 

• Type of Melanoma
• Thickness (see Breslow Thickness)
• Clark’s Level
• Radial Growth Phase
• Vertical Growth Phase
• Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes
• Ulceration
• Regression
• Mitotic Rate
• Satellites
• Blood Vessel/Lymphatic Invasion