(Skin Cancer) New Treatment for Large Pigmented Nevi

On July 1, 2021, the research team of Professor Naoki Morimoto at Kyoto University announced at an online press conference a new treatment approach for large pigmented nevi (congenital melanocytic nevi) that can develop into skin cancer. The method involves surgically cutting and removing skin tissue containing the large pigmented nevus, eliminating the nevus cells, and then transplanting the tissue back to the original site.

The team obtained skin tissue from patients with congenital giant pigmented nevi, used specialized medical devices to eliminate the nevus cells, and then transplanted the treated tissue back to the original site to facilitate skin regeneration.

Clinical trials were conducted on 10 patients over the course of three years up to last year. Results showed that approximately one year after treatment, the nevi had almost entirely disappeared with no signs of recurrence.

Large pigmented nevi are defined as nevi with a diameter of 20 cm or more, occurring in approximately 1 in 20,000 individuals. If left untreated, a small percentage of patients face a risk of developing skin cancer. Until now, no effective treatment has been available.

The team hopes to begin a new clinical trial this month to further verify the treatment method and apply for official medical device approval.

Professor Morimoto stated that this treatment not only eliminates the nevus but also achieves cosmetic improvement, thereby enhancing patients' quality of life.

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