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Dysplastic nevi. Markers for increased risk for melanoma
D S Rigel1, J K Rivers, A W Kopf
1Department of Dermatology, New York University School of Medicine, New York.
Cancer
|January 15, 1989
Summary
Patients with dysplastic nevi had a higher incidence of malignant melanoma (MM) than expected. Regular skin examinations are crucial for early detection and favorable prognoses in these individuals.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
Background:
- Dysplastic nevi are atypical moles that may indicate an increased risk of melanoma.
- Previous studies suggest a link between dysplastic nevi and malignant melanoma development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence of malignant melanoma (MM) in patients with dysplastic nevi.
- To assess the prognostic implications of early MM detection in this cohort.
Main Methods:
- Prospective follow-up of 452 white patients with dysplastic nevi.
- Regular, complete cutaneous examinations with total-body photography.
- Monitoring for newly diagnosed malignant melanomas over an average of 27 months.
Main Results:
- 16 patients (3.5%) developed 18 new malignant melanomas (MM).
- 12 of 18 MM were in situ; 6 were invasive with Breslow thickness < 0.89 mm.
- Significantly higher MM detection rate compared to reference populations.
Conclusions:
- Patients with dysplastic nevi exhibit an elevated risk of developing malignant melanoma.
- Repetitive follow-up examinations are essential for early detection and improved outcomes.
- Early detection of MM in this cohort is associated with an excellent prognosis.