Novel spot-like pigmentary pattern detected by high-resolution epiluminescence microscopy.
BACKGROUND
Epiluminescence light microscopy (ELM) can be improved with enhanced optical resolution.


OBJECTIVE
High-resolution ELM was performed by placing a standard light microscope on the skin surface for visualization of further details.


METHODS
25 melanocytic nevi and 14 melanomas with a globular pattern were investigated and examined histologically.


RESULTS
A new spotty substructure was detected, namely individual pigmented spots of 5-10 micro m in diameter located within peripheral brown globules. Clinicopathologic correlation showed these spots to correspond with individual pigmented melanocytes (IPMs) within nests of melanocytes. IPMs were seen in 9/25 melanocytic nevi and in none of 14 melanomas.


CONCLUSIONS
Their origin may be a physiologic, UV-dependent pigment induction suggesting that they may represent a benign ELM pattern.
Haas
Norbert
N
Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Charité, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany. Norb.Haas@charite.de
Hermes
Barbara
B
Henz
Beate M
BM
D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D008544:Melanocytes / Q000473:pathology; D008545:Melanoma / Q000473:pathology; D008853:Microscopy / Q000379:methods*; D009508:Nevus, Pigmented / Q000473:pathology*; D012867:Skin / Q000473:pathology; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D012880:Skin Pigmentation