Extensive regression in pigmented skin lesions: a dangerous confounding feature.
Title | Extensive regression in pigmented skin lesions: a dangerous confounding feature. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2012 |
Authors | Lallas, A., Apalla Z., Moscarella E., Zalaudek I., Tzellos T., Lefaki I., Cota C., & Argenziano G. |
Journal | Dermatol Pract Concept |
Volume | 2 |
Issue | 2 |
Pagination | 202a08 |
Date Published | 2012 Apr |
ISSN | 2160-9381 |
Abstract | Spontaneous regression in melanomas is not an uncommon phenomenon, as it has been described in 10-35% of primary cutaneous lesions [1]. Regression does not appear to predict a more favorable course, since even fully regressed melanomas may progress into metastatic disease [2]. Several dermoscopic features have been correlated with the regression process, including white scar-like depigmented areas and gray-blue, pepper-like granules, which correspond to dermal scarring, pigment incontinence and presence of melanophages [3,4]. Regression may occur not only in melanomas, but also in melanocytic nevi, which similarly may exhibit white areas and gray-blue granules or areas under dermoscopy [5]. Overall, white areas have been proposed to be associated with the fibrosis type of regression and gray-blue areas to the melanosis type of regression of melanocytic tumors [3]. Lichen planus like keratosis (LPLK) is considered to represent a regressed solar lentigo or seborrheic keratosis. Dermoscopy of LPLK at the late stage of the regression process reveals a diffuse gray-blue granular pattern, similar to that observed in regressed melanocytic lesions [6]. In this context, when evaluating skin lesions that exhibit high degree of regression, interpretation of dermoscopic findings may be problematic, especially when no other dermoscopic clues can be recognized. |
DOI | 10.5826/dpc.0202a08 |
Alternate Journal | Dermatol Pract Concept |
PubMed ID | 23785596 |
PubMed Central ID | PMC3663342 |