Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 15, 2025
12:16
Patient Derived Cell Culture and Isolation of CD133+ Putative Cancer Stem Cells from Melanoma
Published on: March 13, 2013
21.7K
Desmoplastic Melanoma as a Diagnostic Pitfall.
Acta Dermatovenerologica Croatica : ADC
|July 12, 2020
Summary
Desmoplastic melanoma (DM) is a rare skin cancer that can mimic benign lesions. Early dermoscopic detection of atypical vascular structures and pigment patterns aids in diagnosing this rare melanoma subtype.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Desmoplastic melanoma (DM) is a rare, often amelanotic, subtype of melanoma.
- It typically presents as a firm, discoid lesion on sun-exposed areas in elderly patients.
- DM can clinically mimic various benign and malignant skin conditions, complicating diagnosis.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old male presented with a year-long history of an asymptomatic, erythematous plaque.
- Dermoscopy revealed atypical vascular structures, milky-red areas, and atypical pigment network.
- Histopathology showed a dermal proliferation of atypical spindle cells with positive S-100 and HMB45 staining.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with desmoplastic melanoma, nodular subtype, with a Breslow thickness of 4 mm.
- Complete excision with clear margins was performed.
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy and systemic imaging showed no metastases, with a 3-year disease-free follow-up.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering desmoplastic melanoma in the differential diagnosis of unusual pink tumoral lesions.
- Dermoscopic features, including atypical vascular patterns, can aid in early detection.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this rare melanoma subtype.
