Medically reviewed by Dr. A.M. van Coevorden, dermatologist
MELTUMPa pigment tumour whose behaviour cannot be predicted with certainty
MELTUMP stands for melanocytic tumour of uncertain malignant potential: a tumour of pigment cells that cannot be said with certainty to be benign or malignant. The diagnosis can only be made by the pathologist after the spot has been surgically removed. Because a melanoma cannot be fully ruled out, an additional procedure is sometimes done as a precaution.
What is a MELTUMP?
MELTUMP is the abbreviation of melanocytic tumour of uncertain malignant potential: a tumour of pigment cells whose biological behaviour cannot be predicted with certainty. A normal mole consists of pigment cells (melanocytes); if these turn into cancer cells, a melanoma develops. When a spot suspected of melanoma is surgically removed and examined under the microscope, the picture is usually clear, but sometimes not: the pigment cells are then atypical, without clear features of malignancy. A melanoma can then neither be confirmed nor ruled out. Such a spot is called a MELTUMP.
How do you get a MELTUMP?
A MELTUMP can develop anywhere on the skin. Why someone develops one is not entirely clear.
What symptoms does it cause?
A MELTUMP usually looks like a brown-black spot and can sit anywhere on the skin. The diagnosis can never be made from the outside; only after surgical removal and examination by the pathologist. The reason for removal is often an atypical pattern the dermatologist sees. Watch for these signs: a new, striking light-brown, dark-brown, black or red spot; an existing mole that changes (grows, gains different colours, darkens, thickens or changes shape); a mole that hurts or bleeds; or a mole that looks different from the rest, the so-called ugly duckling.
Is it contagious?
No. A MELTUMP is not contagious.
How is the diagnosis made?
The diagnosis can never be made with the naked eye. For an atypical mole the dermatologist uses a dermatoscope, a small hand microscope that shows detail better, but even then it can be difficult. A suspicious spot is therefore always removed under local anaesthetic (a diagnostic excision) and sent to the pathologist. Only the pathologist can make the diagnosis of MELTUMP.
What is the treatment?
The diagnosis is made from the surgically removed skin. Because a melanoma can never be ruled out one hundred percent, the pathologist and dermatologist consider whether additional treatment is needed as a precaution: an extra procedure. Your dermatologist will discuss this with you.
Can a MELTUMP be cured?
If a MELTUMP is fully removed, treatment is complete. It is worth realising that you remain at risk of other forms of skin cancer, for example if you have often been sunburnt, especially in childhood.
What can you do yourself?
Avoid sunburn and do not use a sunbed. Know your own skin and check your moles, using photos or someone else's help, preferably four times a year. Ask your dermatologist how often you need checks.
Frequently asked questions about MELTUMP
Is a MELTUMP malignant?
That is exactly what cannot be said with certainty. The pigment cells are atypical but lack clear features of malignancy, so a melanoma can neither be confirmed nor ruled out.
Why is the spot removed?
Because the diagnosis can only be made by the pathologist, after surgical removal. A MELTUMP cannot be recognised from the outside.
Will I need a second operation?
Sometimes. Because a melanoma cannot be fully ruled out, an additional procedure may be done as a precaution. The dermatologist will discuss this with you.
What is the ugly duckling?
A mole that clearly looks different from your other moles. Such a striking spot can be a reason for assessment.
Am I cured after removal?
If the MELTUMP is fully gone, treatment is complete. Self-checks and sun protection remain important because of the risk of other skin cancer.