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-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone–Induced Eruptive Nevi

Adela R. Cardones, MD; James M. Grichnik, MD, PhD

Arch Dermatol. 2009;145(4):441-444.

Background  Synthetic peptides that target proopiomelanocortin receptors are being investigated as a novel and safe way to tan. It has been postulated that synthetic -melanocyte-stimulating hormone (-MSH) peptides may have protective effects against the development of melanoma because of their melanogenic activity. Their ultimate biological effect, however, especially in patients with dysplastic nevi or previous melanoma, has yet to be determined.

Observations  A 40-year-old white man with a history of melanoma and multiple dysplastic nevi self-administered synthetic -MSH. He developed crops of new pigmented nevi, many of which had atypical clinical and histopathologic features. The preexisting nevi became darker and acquired growth features. After -MSH use was discontinued, the nevi progressively lightened and lost their growth features.

Conclusions  Synthetic -MSH peptides can drive proliferation of neoplastic melanocytic cells in predisposed patients. This could present an increased risk for melanoma development.

Author Affiliations: Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina (Dr Cardones); and Department of Dermatology, University of Miami Health System, Miami, Florida (Dr Grichnik).

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