More than 1 million US patients with melanoma are at risk to develop second primary melanomas. Patients with melanoma and their skin-check partners may self-manage early detection of new or recurrent melanoma with skin self-examination (SSE). In this randomized clinical trial, Robinson et al demonstrate that patients with melanoma and their partners reliably performed SSE after participating in a structured skills training program lasting approximately 30 minutes. Accurate SSE by those at risk may enhance early detection of second primary or recurrent melanomas.
Continuing Medical Education
Early androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is patterned hair loss occurring before age 30 years. Early AGA in men is frequently reported as the phenotypic equivalent of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in women, which carries the risk of developing obesity, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. In this case-control study, Sanke et al demonstrate that patients with early AGA had significantly elevated levels of luteinizing hormone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, total testosterone, and prolactin along with decreased follicle-stimulating hormone and sex hormone–binding globulin. These men could be exposed to the same metabolic risks as women with PCOS, regardless of PCOS severity.