|
|
|
Figure 7
A pigmented 6 mm papule is
present on the left ear helix. The lesion is
symmetrical, homogenous in color, and has a smooth
border.
|
|
It was thought to be a seborrheic keratosis. One month
later, the patient returned noting that the lesion had
slowly grown; punch excision was performed. Histopathologic
investigation showed a proliferation of melanocytes at the
dermal-epidermal junction forming irregular nests. The
melanocytes showed variation in nuclear shape, size, and
chromatin pattern and were present at higher levels within
the epidermis, and followed the dermal-epidermal junction
into hair follicles (Figures 8a, 8b).
|
Figure 8a
A medium-power view showing in
situ melanoma presenting as atypical lentiginous
melanocytic hyperplasia.
|
|
|
Figure 8b
A medium-power view af another
area showing pagetoid spread of atypical
melanocytes.
|
|
No invasive growth was present. The diagnosis of
malignant melanoma in situ was made.
© 1999 Dermatology Online Journal
|
Case 4
