Protocol Number: 06-C-0060
-Melanocytic nevi, or "moles," are non-cancerous growths of a type of skin cell called a melanocyte. -Large congenital melanocytic nevi (LCMN) are a special type of mole that begins to grow before birth and is larger than moles that develop after birth. -Determining how melanocytes in moles and LCMNs differ from normal melanocytes may increase the ability to predict whether a mole will give rise to a melanoma (a type of skin cancer) Objectives: -To understand how melanomas develop, by studying moles, LCMNs, and pigmented skin lesions that are suspicious for melanoma -To develop better criteria for diagnosing melanoma, particularly by using a device called a digital dermatoscope (a special camera, connected to a computer, that takes pictures of moles when they are magnified and illuminated) Eligibility: -Children 5 years old or older with an LCMN -Adults 18 years old or older with 100 or more moles larger than 2 mm in diameter and at least one 4 mm or more -Adults 18 years old or older with a pigmented lesion suspicious for melanoma Design: -Patients' personal and family health history is obtained. -Patients are examined by investigative team doctors, and several lesions are examined with a dermatoscope. -Additional photographs of part or all of the skin surface may be taken. -Some lesions may be biopsied. -Additional tests or examinations may be recommended. -Patients are followed periodically for skin or physical examinations, photography, laboratory and imaging evaluations, and possible skin biopsies. -Children may undergo brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
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National Institutes of Health Clinical Center
Bethesda, Maryland 20892. Last update: 01/30/2009
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