Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 27, 2026
A 3D Organotypic Melanoma Spheroid Skin Model
Published on: May 18, 2018
A variant of junctional naevus of epithelioid and spindle cell type rich in melanophages
Leonardo Celleno1, Guido Massi
1Department of Dermatology, Catholic University Medical School, Rome, Italy.
Abstract:
We describe a form of junctional melanocytic neoplasm with a massive production of melanin accumulated in the dermis. The pigment is stored in macrophages, which are by far the most numerous cellular component of the lesion. Another peculiar aspect is the occasional presence of a few melanocytes scattered in a pagetoid pattern above the dermo-epidermal junction in the spinous layer. The histological picture of this lesion is similar to a form of "tumoral melanosis" induced by a regressed malignant melanoma. The lesion had a worrisome clinical picture, its dark colour constituting a clinico-pathological diagnostic problem. The main clinical clues to the benign nature of this entity are the small lateral diameter, the uniform distribution of the pigment and the stability of the lesion over time; moreover, the patients are alive and well after a considerable length of time. Although a regressed dysplastic or malignant lesion cannot be totally excluded from a scientific point of view, we conclude that there is no sound morphological or clinical evidence that the lesion is other than biologically benign. The lesion is most likely another peculiar variant of epithelioid and spindle cell naevus.
Insights
This study identifies a benign junctional melanocytic neoplasm with significant melanin production. The lesion, characterized by dermal pigment in macrophages, mimics concerning conditions but shows benign clinical and histological features.
Area of Science:
- Dermatopathology
- Oncology
- Melanocytic Neoplasms
Background:
- Junctional melanocytic neoplasms require accurate diagnosis to differentiate benign from malignant forms.
- Melanocytic lesions with significant pigment can present diagnostic challenges.
- Understanding variants of melanocytic nevi is crucial for clinical management.
Observation:
- A unique melanocytic neoplasm exhibits massive melanin production, primarily stored in dermal macrophages.
- Histological features include scattered pagetoid melanocytes in the spinous layer.
- The lesion's dark, worrisome clinical appearance can mimic regressed melanoma.
Findings:
- Despite a concerning appearance, key clinical indicators like small size, uniform pigment, and stability suggest benignity.
- Morphological analysis reveals no definitive evidence of malignancy, supporting a benign diagnosis.
- The lesion is proposed as a variant of epithelioid and spindle cell nevus.
Implications:
- Accurate classification of this melanocytic neoplasm variant is essential to avoid unnecessary aggressive treatment.
- Recognizing benign features can alleviate patient anxiety associated with concerning clinical presentations.
- Further research may clarify the specific biological behavior and potential for recurrence of this nevus variant.
More Related Videos
08:57Identifying, Diagnosing, and Grading Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors in Genetically Engineered Mouse Models
Published on: May 17, 2024
09:37Combining Reflectance Confocal Microscopy with Optical Coherence Tomography for Noninvasive Diagnosis of Skin Cancers via Image Acquisition
Published on: August 18, 2022
Related Concept Videos
01:30Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
01:11Papillary Dermis
The dermis might be considered the "core" of the integumentary system, as distinct from the epidermis and hypodermis. It contains blood and lymph vessels, nerves, and other structures, such as hair follicles and sweat glands. The dermis is made of two layers of connective tissue that comprise an interconnected mesh of elastin and collagenous fibers, produced by fibroblasts.
Papillary Layer
The papillary layer is made of loose, areolar connective tissue, which means the collagen and...
01:24Cells of the Epidermis
The cells in all these layers except the stratum basale are called keratinocytes, a type of cell that manufactures and stores the protein keratin. The keratinocytes in the stratum corneum are dead and regularly slough away, being replaced by cells from...
01:29Classification of Epithelial Tissues: Stratified Epithelium
01:15Reticular Dermis
Reticular Layer
Underlying the papillary layer is the much thicker reticular layer, composed of dense, irregular connective...
01:19Pigmentation
Melanin occurs in two primary forms: eumelanin that provides black and brown pigment and pheomelanin that provides red color. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin than those with pale...