Epidemiological and histopathological profile of cutaneous melanoma at a center in northeastern Brazil from 2000 to 2010.

Background: While representing only 3-4% of malignant skin tumors, cutaneous melanoma is the most aggressive and lethal. Statistical knowledge about the biological behavior of this tumor is essential for guiding daily outpatient practice and aiding public health policies.

Objectives: To analyze the profile of patients with cutaneous melanoma attending a pathology department in Teresina (state of Piauí) between 2000 and 2010.