Defining the dermoscopic characteristics of fast-growing cutaneous melanomas

Melanoma Res. 2015 Jun;25(3):269-72. doi: 10.1097/CMR.0000000000000157.

Abstract

A high growth rate in melanomas has been associated with a more aggressive phenotype and worse survival. The aim of this study was to define the dermoscopic characteristics associated with this type of cutaneous melanoma. We carried out a retrospective study of 132 cutaneous melanomas, analyzing certain clinical characteristics and the most important dermoscopic variables related to the melanomas. Fast-growing melanomas were considered to be those with a growth rate of more than 0.5 mm per month. Fast-growing melanomas more often lacked an atypical network, were symmetrical, presented ulceration, and were hypopigmented. The dermoscopic vascular pattern often showed atypical irregular vessels and milky-red areas. The association of these two is a specific characteristic. Fast-growing melanomas have a characteristic phenotype and dermoscopy can be useful for their identification.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Dermoscopy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypopigmentation / etiology
  • Male
  • Melanoma / blood supply
  • Melanoma / pathology*
  • Melanoma / physiopathology
  • Melanoma, Cutaneous Malignant
  • Middle Aged
  • Peripheral Vascular Diseases / etiology
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Skin / blood supply
  • Skin / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / blood supply
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / physiopathology
  • Skin Ulcer / etiology
  • Spain