Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 29, 2026
Dermoscopy Aids in the Diagnosis of Discoid Lupus Erythematosus
Published on: May 16, 2025
Videodermatoscopy improves the clinical diagnostic accuracy of multiple clear cell acanthoma
Francesco Lacarrubba1, Rocco de Pasquale, Giuseppe Micali
1Dermatology Clinic, University of Catania, Piazza S. Agata La Vetere, 6, 95124 Catania, Italy.
Abstract:
A 69-year-old male presented with about 20 reddish, sharply circumscribed, smooth papules, 5-10 mm in diameter, sometimes with a peripheral scaling collarette, scattered on the legs, which appeared during the last 5 years. Videodermatoscopic examination showed a similar pattern in all lesions, consisting of symmetrical and homogeneous pinpoint-like vascular structures which tended to be arranged in a net-like pattern. At higher magnification each vascular structure appeared to have a bush-like aspect. On the basis of past medical history, clinical and dermatoscopic features, the diagnosis of multiple clear cell acanthoma (CCA) was considered. Histologic examination of a papular lesion confirmed the diagnosis. In conclusion, although the dermatoscopic pattern of CCA is not specific, videodermatoscopy may improve the clinical diagnosis of single or multiple CCA, ruling out clinically similar disorders that do not show the same dermatoscopic vascular pattern of CCA.
Insights
Multiple clear cell acanthoma (CCA) lesions were identified in a 69-year-old male. Videodermatoscopy aided in diagnosing these skin papules by revealing characteristic vascular patterns, distinguishing CCA from similar conditions.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Clear cell acanthoma (CCA) is a benign skin neoplasm.
- Multiple presentations of CCA are rare.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial to differentiate from other skin conditions.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old male presented with multiple, reddish, smooth papules on the legs.
- Videodermatoscopy revealed symmetrical, net-like, pinpoint vascular structures with a bush-like appearance at higher magnification.
- Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of clear cell acanthoma.
Findings:
- The observed dermatoscopic vascular pattern, though not entirely specific, is characteristic of clear cell acanthoma.
- Videodermatoscopy demonstrated a consistent pattern across all multiple lesions.
- Histological examination confirmed the clinical and dermatoscopic suspicion of CCA.
Implications:
- Videodermatoscopy can enhance the clinical diagnosis of both single and multiple clear cell acanthomas.
- This technique aids in differentiating CCA from clinically similar skin disorders based on distinct vascular patterns.
- Improved diagnostic accuracy through videodermatoscopy can guide appropriate patient management.
