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The aim of the S3-guideline melanoma contains recommendations on diagnosis, therapy and follow-up of cutaneous melanoma in its primary, limited locoregional and metastatic stages. Mucosal and uveal melanomas are not considered. Questions on early recognition have been considered in the S3-guideline on prevention of skin cancer. Objectives and formulation of questionsThe aim of the S3-guideline melanoma is to provide physicians in office and clinical practice in the field of oncology an accepted, evidence-based decision-making aid for the selection and performance of suitable measures for diagnostics, therapy and follow-up of cutaneous melanoma. The systematic presentation of study results with respect to benefits and risks are intended to support physicians as well as patients in their decision-making.The basis of the recommendations is a review of available evidence according to the criteria of evidence-based medicine, the adaptation of available evidence-based international guidelines as well as in the event of lack of evidence on the basis of good clinical practice. All recommendations were evaluated by interdisciplinary representatives and consented.The guideline should set quality standards and thus in the long term improve care of melanoma patients. Addressees and duration of validityThe S3-guideline melanoma is directed at dermatologists, family physicians, internists, general practitioners, gynecologists, surgeons, oncologists, radiologists and radiation therapists in inpatient and outpatient settings and other medical specialties involved in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with cutaneous melanoma. The guideline is also directed at affected patients and their family members. Further, it should serve as orientation for health insurance providers and political decision makers.The maximum duration of validity stipulated by the AWMF is five years. A modular update in yearly intervals is planned.In 2015 an update of the entire guideline is planned with a designation of new mandate holders.The recommendations were developed on the basis of key questions that were agreed upon at the start in a kick-off meeting by the mandate holders. Evidence-based recommendations: Statement of evidence level (quality level of evidence) as well as grade of recommendation (inclusion of the clinical evaluation) and strength of consensus.Basis: adaptation of source guidelines or systematic search of the literature de-novo. Non-evidence-based recommendations: A smaller share of recommendations was not evidence-based but based on GCP (Good Clinical Practice), strength of consensus, no level of evidence, no grade of recommendation.

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