For the Record: The History of Precursors to Malignant Melanoma

摘要: To the Editor.— In response to recent letter in theArchivesby Fusaro et al 1 regarding precursor nevi and malignant melanoma, we offer following observations. Priority new medical discoveries is notoriously difficult establish, since, as all recognize, investigators necessarily build on observations of many others who have worked same area. We believe distinction recognizing familial melanoma a unique entity belongs eminent Scottish surgeon, Sir William Norris. 1820, describing first patient with reported English language literature, Norris 2 noted that his patient's father had died family members large numbers their skin. He concluded: "These facts... would incline me this disease hereditary."