Skin markings in the diagnosis and prognosis of cutaneous melanoma

Abstract

Skin markings and pathologic findings in 105 patients with cutaneous melanoma were reviewed to determine relationship between clinical findings, pathologic findings, and prognosis. Lesions with decreased or absent markings are significantly thicker than those with increased or normal markings and therefore carry a worse prognosis. Loss of skin markings is a late sign of melanoma and should not be relied on as an aid in early diagnosis.