Dermoscopy as a technique for the early identification of foot melanoma

Abstract

Malignant melanoma is the most common primary malignant tumour arising on the foot. Where improvements in the prognosis have been observed for patients with melanoma elsewhere on the skin, pedal lesions are still frequently delayed in presentation through neglect or misdiagnosis. Detection of foot melanoma relies on the health care practitioner's skills and observations in recognising early changes. Recent publications have documented the use a dermoscopy as a tool to improve recognition of such suspicious lesions. This paper reviews current literature with a special emphasis of its potential applications on plantar and nail unit melanoma. Data from these studies suggest that the technique is a useful and significant adjunct to clinical examination, which ultimately may lead to earlier recognition of this aggressive tumour.

The Italian Euromelanoma Day: evaluation of results and implications for future prevention campaigns

“…It can be achieved by screening campaigns targeted to high‐risk individuals who had not sought medical advice . Dermoscopy is a noninvasive diagnostic tool proven to be extremely useful when dealing with melanocytic skin lesions . In melanoma screening, the aim of dermoscopy is to maximize early detection while minimizing the unnecessary excisions .…”

Is Pedal Melanoma Among A Nigerian Ethnic Group Preventable?

“…Indeed, museums illumined them [6]. Nowadays, epidemiologic papers on the foot as the organ of site of origin are being promoted [7][8][9][10][11]. Therefore, the present paper documents the findings from my Nigerian personal experience.…”

Alternative uses of dermoscopy in general dermatology

“…Asymmetry of color and shape, atypical network, and presence of blue-white structures or veil are characteristics suspicious for acral melanoma. Furthermore, pigmentation on the ridges (parallel ridge pattern) is a highly specific dermoscopic pattern and raises the index of suspicion [33] . Besides the diagnostic impact, dermoscopy may also be useful in monitoring the treatment of viral warts.…”