[Variations of the ultrasound image in malignant melanoma]

High-resolution ultrasound plays an important role in the preoperative assessment of malignant melanoma. The typical ultrasonographic image showing few internal echoes and sharp delineation allows statements on the benign or malignant nature and on tumour thickness. Diagnostic pitfalls are encountered if deviations from the typical structure are present, as they are caused by underlying dermal naevi, lymphocytic infiltration, or hair follicles. We describe variations in the ultrasonic imaging of malignant melanoma with reference to three cases.