Association between germ cell tumours, large numbers of naevi, atypical naevi and melanoma

Melanoma Res. 2001 Apr;11(2):117-22. doi: 10.1097/00008390-200104000-00005.

Abstract

Identifying groups of subjects at high risk for the development of melanoma is crucial for the early diagnosis of curable tumours. In the present study, we performed a skin examination in a group of 63 patients followed up after treatment of germ cell tumours (GCTs) who were referred to the dermatologist for multiple pigmented cutaneous spots. Forty-nine patients bearing a great number of naevi or atypical naevi were included in the study. Two thin cutaneous melanomas were discovered in two patients. In addition, a third patient had had a conjunctival melanoma since treatment of the GCT. Our study confirms the presence of atypical naevi in a subgroup of GCT patients, who are shown to be at high risk of developing melanoma. Patients harbouring multiple pigmented spots should be referred for a skin examination aimed at early detection of curable melanomas, and should be advised to protect themselves from sun exposure.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Melanoma / genetics
  • Melanoma / metabolism
  • Melanoma / pathology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Mutation
  • Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal / genetics
  • Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal / metabolism
  • Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal / pathology*
  • Nevus / pathology*
  • Risk Factors
  • Skin Neoplasms / genetics
  • Skin Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology
  • Sunlight