Decreased vitamin D serum levels at melanoma diagnosis are associated with tumor ulceration and high tumor mitotic rate

Melanoma Res. 2019 Dec;29(6):664-667. doi: 10.1097/CMR.0000000000000638.

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate the relation between 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels at diagnosis and pathological characteristics in primary invasive melanoma. A cross-sectional study was designed based on a series of 204 consecutive patients diagnosed of invasive melanomas in the 2013-2017 period at a single institution. 25-hydroxyvitamin D serum levels at diagnosis were assessed, and three groups were defined by vitamin D status: deficiency, insufficiency, and sufficiency. Clinical and pathological characteristics were compared between the groups by Chi-square test. Logistic regression models were performed to evaluate the association between vitamin D status and Breslow thickness, ulceration, and tumor mitotic rate. A significant association between vitamin D levels at diagnosis and location, tumor mitotic rate, and ulceration was found; and a borderline association with Breslow thickness and BMI. Deficient levels were found in 7.8% of patients and increased the risk of presenting ulcerated tumors [odds ratio: 6.8 (95% confidence interval: 1.5-29.7; P = 0.012)] and with a tumor mitotic rate greater than 1 mitosis/mm [odds ratio: 6.0 (95% confidence interval: 1.4-25.1; P = 0.014)]. A marginal increased risk of tumor thickness greater than 1 mm was also observed [odds ratio: 3.7 (95% confidence interval: 1.0-13.9; P = 0.057)]. Our study suggests a role of vitamin D levels in melanoma aggressiveness and raises the question as to whether vitamin D levels should be monitored, or even supplemented, in people with low yearly sun exposure.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Melanoma / blood*
  • Melanoma / pathology
  • Middle Aged
  • Mitosis / physiology
  • Prospective Studies
  • Skin Neoplasms / blood*
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology
  • Vitamin D / blood*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Vitamin D