[WHO classification of melanocytic tumours].

BACKGROUND

The update of the World Health Organisation (WHO) classification of skin tumours has led to new aspects in the classification of melanocytic tumours.

OBJECTIVES

Presentation of the classification of melanocytic tumours in light of current clinical, histological and genetic data.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Review of the classification of melanocytic neoplasms in the fifth edition of the WHO classification of skin tumours, taking into account current disease concepts.

RESULTS

Malignant melanoma is characterised by stepwise tumour progression and is a heterogeneous disease. Benign and intermediate precursor lesions with characteristic driver mutations can be defined for the different melanoma subtypes. Melanocytomas represent a growing group of intermediate neoplasms which, from a genetic point of view, lie between nevi and melanomas and usually have a benign course.

CONCLUSION

With the update of the WHO classification, genetic parameters are becoming increasingly relevant and shape the terminology. New terms such as 'melanocytoma' require a medical understanding of current disease concepts and good physician-patient communication for appropriate reporting of findings and therapy.