Standardization of terminology in dermoscopy/dermatoscopy: Results of the third consensus conference of the International Society of Dermoscopy

Abstract

Background Evolving dermoscopic terminology motivated us to initiate a new consensus. Objective We sought to establish a dictionary of standardized terms. Methods We reviewed the medical literature, conducted a survey, and convened a discussion among experts. Results Two competitive terminologies exist, a more metaphoric terminology that includes numerous terms and a descriptive terminology based on 5 basic terms. In a survey among members of the International Society of Dermoscopy (IDS) 23.5% (n = 201) participants preferentially use descriptive terminology, 20.1% (n = 172) use metaphoric terminology, and 484 (56.5%) use both. More participants who had been initially trained by metaphoric terminology prefer using descriptive terminology than vice versa (9.7% vs 2.6%, P < .001). Most new terms that were published since the last consensus conference in 2003 were unknown to the majority of the participants. There was uniform consensus that both terminologies are suitable, that metaphoric terms need definitions, that synonyms should be avoided, and that the creation of new metaphoric terms should be discouraged. The expert panel proposed a dictionary of standardized terms taking account of metaphoric and descriptive terms. Limitations A consensus seeks a workable compromise but does not guarantee its implementation. Conclusion The new consensus provides a revised framework of standardized terms to enhance the consistent use of dermoscopic terminology.

Recognition of early melanoma: a monocentric dermoscopy follow‐up study comparing de novo melanoma with nevus‐associated melanoma

“…The list initially used before preselection was taken from the analytical publications on changes observed in melanomas during dermoscopic followup. This list was first converted to a list of descriptive terminology using the results of the recent third consensus conference on standardization of terminology in dermoscopy, 23 (Fig. We also excluded from this list the criteria that we considered redundant as: (i) overall organization, as it is a consequence of the appearance of the below listed criteria, (ii) the disappearance or less prominence of structures or colors, since those changes were always associated with the concomitant appearance or increased detection (more prominent) in the same area of one of the listed criteria (Fig.…”

Enhancing Skin Cancer Diagnosis with Dermoscopy

“…This list was compiled using the most recent definitions of dermoscopic criteria published by the International Dermoscopy Society in 2016. 26 …”

“…18,34 In addition, several studies look at specific comparisons of the dermoscopic features of AK, for example, to those of SCC, but not all possible diagnoses. 21,35 When a definition was absent from the International Society of Dermoscopy 2016 consensus meeting 26 , we cited definitions provided from other sources. Finally, while purported to be significant, some feature have yet to be rigorously studied to determine their diagnostic significance.…”

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“…A hemangioma or angiokeratoma usually has red‐purple or red‐blue to black lacunae, and maroon (which is low red in another definition) also known as lagoon‐like structures, as very specific features (Fig. ) …”