Spindle cell melanoma

Spindle cell melanoma (lat. m. fusicellulare) is a subtype of skin melanoma. It is called spindle cell because the tumor cells are spindle-shaped.

This type of melanoma accounts for about 5% of all cases of the disease. Typically, spindle cell melanoma occurs in older people, aged 60-70 years. Most often located on open areas of the skin exposed to sunlight.

Microscopic examination reveals spindle-shaped cells with a large nucleus and abundant pigmentation in the tumor. These cells grow vertically deep into the skin, forming "papillary" structures.

Clinically, spindle cell melanoma appears as a pigmented formation with uneven edges. Color varies from brown to black. The tumor is usually painless.

Treatment consists of timely surgical excision of the tumor and subsequent observation, since this type of melanoma can metastasize. The prognosis depends on the stage of the disease. With early diagnosis, the 5-year survival rate is 90%.