Small cell (naevoid) melanoma: a clinicopathologic study of 131 cases

One hundred and thirty-one small cell melanomas were reviewed with respect to clinical data submitted with each specimen and the histological pattern of each tumour. Of the small cell melanomas, 80% developed in individuals over the age of 50 years. There was a 2:1 male predominance with 58% of the tumours in men occurring on the back. All but one melanoma showed a lentiginous intraepidermal pattern. The dermal component was characterized by cords and nests of hyperchromatic melanocytes associated with interstitial fibrosis. Small cell melanomas may be recognized as thin lesions and are commonly located in chronic sun-damaged skin of elderly individuals. They may represent a special naevoid variant of lentigo maligna melanoma.