Background. We aimed to investigate age-specific and sex-specific incidence trends of melanoma in Lithuania from 1991 to 2015. Methods. Analysis was based on data from the population-based Lithuanian Cancer Registry database for 1991–2015, and 6024 cases of skin melanoma were identified. Age-adjusted rates (ASRs) by sex and age group were calculated. Adjustment for ASRs was done using the old European standard population, where a total of three age groups were considered: 0–39, 40–59 and 60+. Additionally, the annual percent change (APC) was calculated, and 95% confidence intervals for APC were calculated. Results. Between 1991 and 2015, the overall melanoma rates increased by an annual percent change (APC) of 3.9% in men (95% CI, 3.6–4.1%) and 2.3% in women (95% CI, 2.1–2.5%). The highest incidences of new cutaneous melanoma cases were observed between old adults (60+) of both sexes, while the lowest incidence rates were observed in the young adult group (up to 39 years old), with the lowest APC (1.6% in males and 0.4% in females). The overall number of melanoma deaths during 1991 and 2015 increased from 64 to 103 deaths per year, and the age-standardized rate (ASR) increased 1.3 times (from 1.8 to 2.4). Conclusions. The incidence and mortality of skin melanoma seem to be increased in all age groups. These trends indicate that skin protection behavior is not sufficient in our population and more efforts need to be taken in order to decrease incidence and mortality rates.

Background and Objectives: Gallbladder cancer is a rare type of cancer, with aggressive clinical behavior. Limited treatment options provide poor survival prognosis. We aimed to investigate the incidence, mortality trends, and survival of gallbladder and extrahepatic bile duct cancer in Lithuania between 1998 and 2017. Materials and Methods: The study was based on the Lithuanian Cancer Registry database. The study included all cases of cancer of the gallbladder and extrahepatic bile ducts reported to the Registry in the period 1998–2017. Age-specific and age-standardized incidence rates were calculated. In addition, 95% confidence intervals for APC (Annual Percent Change) were calculated. Changes were considered statistically significant if p was <0.05. Relative survival estimates were calculated using period analysis according to the Ederer II method. Results: Age-standardized rates for gallbladder cancer and extrahepatic bile duct cancer among females decreased from 3.91 to 1.93 cases per 100.000 individuals between 1998 and 2017, and from 2.32 to 1.59 cases per 100.000 individuals between 1998 and 2017 among males. The highest incidence rates were found in the 85+ group with 27.5/100,000 individuals in females and 26.8/100,000 individuals in males. The 1-year as well as 5-year relative survival rates of both genders were 34.29% (95% CI 32.12–36.48) and 16.29% (95% CI 14.40–18.27), respectively. Conclusions: Incidence and mortality from gallbladder and extrahepatic bile duct cancer decreased in both sexes in Lithuania. Incidence and mortality rates were higher in females than in males. Relative 1-year and 5-year survival rates showed a steady increase during the study period among males and females.

Background. Presacral tumors are rare and anatomically complex lesions located between the rectum and the sacrum. Due to their often asymptomatic nature, most cases are diagnosed incidentally. Although typically benign, these tumors are surgically removed due to the risk of complications or malignant transformation. Successful treatment depends on the choice of surgical approach and the preservation of sacral nerves, both of which directly impact patients’ quality of life. This article aims to review the classification, diagnosis, treatment of presacral tumors and the impact of surgical decisions on patients’ quality of life. Methods. A literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and ScienceDirect. The included studies provide an overview of classification, diagnosis, treatment of presacral tumors, the impact of complications on quality of life and possible strategies for managing postoperative complications and improving patient well-being. Results. Presacral tumors are most commonly congenital, originating from remnants of embryonic tissue. The primary treatment modality is surgical resection, with the approach depending on tumor location and size. While minimally invasive techniques help reduce the risk of complications, surgery may still result in urinary, bowel, and sexual dysfunction, particularly when sacral nerves are affected. To mitigate these complications and preserve quality of life, nerve-sparing strategies, rehabilitation, and individualized postoperative care play a crucial role. Conclusions. The success of presacral tumor treatment depends on early diagnosis, appropriate surgical strategy, and effective management of functional complications. To ensure long-term quality of life, it is essential to integrate nerve-preservation principles, apply minimally invasive techniques, and provide specialized rehabilitation.