Abstract

The most common tumour among adults is skin cancer. Regarding the USA. melanoma affects approximately 28.000 individuals per year, resulting in 5800 deaths. In the past 40 years there has been a 700 per cent increase of incidences [1]. Because of its distinct clinical features the tumour could be detected at a time, when cure by surgical excision is still possible. In order to perform a successful operation it is necessary to evaluate the thickness of the tumour, since it affects the diameter of tissue to be removed. To an extent of 0.76 mm in depth the tumour can be excised almost without any margin. Moreover the 5-year survival rate increases up to 95% with a recognition at such an early stage [2.3].

© 1996 IEEE