Dermoscopy structures as predictors of sentinel lymph node positivity in cutaneous melanoma

Abstract

Background: Histological features such as Breslow thickness, ulceration and mitosis are the main criteria to guide sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) in melanoma. Dermoscopy may add complementary information to these criteria.

Objectives: To evaluate the correlation between dermoscopy structures and SLNB positivity.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of 123 consecutive melanomas with Breslow thickness > 0·75 mm, SLNB performed during follow-up and dermoscopic images.

Results: Men were more likely to have a positive SLNB. The presence of ulceration and blotch and the absence of a pigmented network in dermoscopy correlated with positive SLNB. Histological ulceration also correlated with positive SLNB. A dermoscopy SCORE predicted SLN status with a sensitivity of 96·3% and a specificity of 30·2%. When sex and Breslow thickness were added (SCOREBRESEX), the sensitivity remained at 96·3% but the specificity increased to 52·1%. This study is limited by the number of patients and was performed in only one institution.

Conclusions: Dermoscopy allowed a more precise prediction of SLN status. If a combined SCOREBRESEX was used to select patients for SLNB, 41·5% of procedures might be avoided.