Retrospective study of the association between atopy and survival and risk of brain metastasis in elderly cutaneous melanoma patients

A retrospective study using the SEER Medicare database investigated the association of atopy with survival and risk of brain metastasis in cutaneous melanoma patients aged 65 years and older. Among 23,508 patients, history of atopy diagnosed before the melanoma diagnosis was associated with 18% lower risk of death (p<0.001) and 16% lower risk of development of brain metastasis (p=0.006). The authors conclude that history of atopy among elderly patients may identify those with more robust immune function who may be more responsive to treatment.