[Cutaneous melanoma of the head and neck].

The clinical records of 20 patients with the diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma of the head and neck treated between 1991 and 2005 were retrospectively reviewed. Advances in diagnostic techniques and treatment have had obvious impact on outcomes in cutaneous melanoma. Cutaneous melanoma of the head of neck is treated with complete surgical resection in early stage disease. Resection margins are determined by the size and depth. Evaluation for regional and distant metastatic disease is necessary in advanced stage disease. Adjuvant therapy may be indicated in regional nodal disease.