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Recognition of early melanoma: a monocentric dermoscopy follow‐up study comparing de novo melanoma with nevus‐associated melanoma
Author(s) -
Alvarez Martinez David,
Boehncke WolfHenning,
Kaya Gürkan,
Merat Rastine
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
international journal of dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.677
H-Index - 93
eISSN - 1365-4632
pISSN - 0011-9059
DOI - 10.1111/ijd.13977
Subject(s) - medicine , melanoma , dermatology , nevus , cancer research
Background The earlier detection of melanomas occurring within preexisting nevi is theoretically possible using sequential dermoscopy. Characterizing the early follow‐up changes of nevus‐associated melanomas ( NAM s) and differentiating them from those observed in de novo melanomas ( DNM s) may help the earlier recognition of NAM s. Methods Using descriptive dermoscopic features to detect focal changes, we blindly evaluated retrospectively the baseline and follow‐up images of 32 melanomas that were subsequently classified as histopathologically defined NAM s or DNM s. Results Correlates of growth, as structureless brown‐black areas or clods, complemented each other for the identification of DNM s at baseline (structureless brown‐black areas: 66.7% DNM s, 15% NAM s, P < 0.01; combined with dots, one or the other being present: 100% DNM s, 30% NAM s, P < 0.01) and when considering their baseline presence or their appearance at follow‐up (100% DNM s, 35% NAM s, P < 0.01). Correlates of fibrosis, as white lines, when considering their baseline presence or their appearance at follow‐up, were associated with NAM s (60%, 16.7% DNM s, P = 0.027). Conclusion Significant differences, distinguishing NAM s from DNM s, were detected particularly when considering both baseline signs and follow‐up changes. Earlier identification of NAM s and their subsequent improved histological characterization will help define the subgroup of high‐risk patients, for whom comprehensive image monitoring may be beneficial.