Cutaneous non-volar melanoma dermoscopy and histopathology correlation: a systematic review protocol

Dermoscopy has a proved validity in the diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma, which is one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer. Although some studies have demonstrated a relationship between specific dermoscopic and pathologic melanoma features, there is no solid evidence allowing reliable conclusions. This study will evaluate the evidence regarding this association.

Observational studies eligible for our systematic review will enrol adults with histological cutaneous non-volar melanoma diagnosis and with dermoscopy image analysis. We will search the following databases: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, MEDLINE and Cochrane Library. We will not impose any language or date restrictions. Outcomes of interest include the association of at least one of the melanoma dermoscopy features (irregular pigmentation, blue-white veil, atypical network, multicomponent pattern, atypical dots and/or globules, regression, peripheral tan structureless area, negative network, shiny white structures, atypical vessels and streaks/pseudopods), with melanoma Breslow index or other histopathology characteristics (melanoma subtype, mitotic index and presence of ulceration). Two reviewers will independently screen and search results, extract data from eligible studies and assess risk of bias. The evidence derived by this study will elucidate the possible link between melanoma dermoscopy and histopathology. If we could predict melanoma thickness based on dermoscopy, we would be able to anticipate melanoma treatment with impact on survival.

Ethical approval is not required because this is a literature-based study. It will be published in scientific Pubmed indexed open access journals to ensure its accessibility.

CRD42024564919.