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Novel spot-like pigmentary pattern detected by high-resolution epiluminescence microscopy
Norbert Haas1, Barbara Hermes, Beate M Henz
1Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Charité, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany. Norb.Haas@charite.de
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.
Conclusion:
Their origin may be a physiologic, UV-dependent pigment induction suggesting that they may represent a benign ELM pattern.