Bridging the Gap: Implementing the 2024 National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) Melanoma Imaging Guidelines in Real-World Practice

Abstract

Malignant Melanoma is the fourth most common cancer in Ireland, known for rapid progression and metastasis. Targeted immunotherapy has significantly improved 5-year survival. In May 2024, the National Cancer Control Programme issued guidelines for radiological staging and surveillance, helping clinicians in determining the appropriate radiological modality and timeline for staging and surveillance. This audit revealed gaps in follow-up imaging due to organizational constraints and health service pressures. Compliance with staging imaging was high at 92% (11/12), improving to 100% (12/12) following re-audit. In contrast, compliance with surveillance imaging was lower, with 55% (6/11) for PET-CT and 27% (3/11) for MRI/CT brain, improving to 87.5% (7/8) and 50% (4/8), respectively, in the second cycle. Continued audit and multidisciplinary education are vital for consistent, guideline-based melanoma follow-up.