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Updated: Feb 15, 2026
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Mammalian Cell Division in 3D Matrices via Quantitative Confocal Reflection Microscopy
Published on: November 29, 2017
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Reflectance confocal microscopy features of thin versus thick melanomas
Agnieszka Kardynal1, Małgorzata Olszewska2, Nathalie de Carvalho3
1Department of Dermatology, CSK MSWiA, Warsaw, Poland.
Summary
In-vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) can differentiate thin and thick melanomas. Thin melanomas show edged papillae and cobblestone patterns, while thick melanomas exhibit roundish cells and epidermal disarray.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- In-vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is crucial for melanoma diagnosis.
- Distinguishing thin from thick melanomas is vital for prognosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and compare typical RCM features of thin (≤1 mm Breslow index) versus thick (>1 mm Breslow index) melanomas.
- To assess the utility of RCM in the differential diagnosis of melanoma based on tumor thickness.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of RCM images from 30 patients with confirmed cutaneous melanoma.
- Fifteen thin melanomas (≤1 mm) and 15 thick melanomas (>1 mm) were examined using Vivascope RCM prior to excision.
Main Results:
- Thin melanomas more frequently displayed edged papillae (26.7%) and cobblestone/honeycomb patterns (33.3%).
- Thick melanomas showed significantly higher frequencies of roundish cells (100%), non-edged papillae (100%), pagetoid cells (73.3%), atypical dermal-epidermal junction cells (53.3%), and epidermal disarray (93.3%).
Conclusions:
- RCM provides valuable insights into melanoma evolution and biology.
- Edged papillae and cobblestone/honeycomb patterns are characteristic of thin melanomas, suggesting a better prognosis.
- Roundish cells, non-edged papillae, pagetoid cells, and epidermal disarray are indicative of thick melanomas.
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