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Medical Encyclopedia |
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Alternative Names Return to top
Thormahlen's test; Melanin - urineDefinition Return to top
Urine melanin is a test to determine the abnormal presence of melanin in the urine.
How the Test is Performed Return to top
A clean-catch urine sample is needed.
How to Prepare for the Test Return to top
No special preparation is needed.
How the Test Will Feel Return to top
The test involves only normal urination.
Why the Test is Performed Return to top
This test is used to diagnose melanoma, a type of skin cancer that produces melanin. If the cancer spreads (especially within the liver), the cancer may produce enough of this substance that it shows up in the urine.
Normal Results Return to top
Normally, melanin is not present in urine.
What Abnormal Results Mean Return to top
If melanin is present in the urine, malignant melanoma is suspected.
Risks Return to top
There are no risks associated with this test.
Considerations Return to top
This test is rarely performed as there are better diagnostic tests available.
Update Date: 2/5/2008 Updated by: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
