Noninvasive Imaging Technologies in the Diagnosis of Melanoma

PIGMENTED LESIONS

Noninvasive Imaging Technologies in the Diagnosis of Melanoma

Sep
2010
Vol. 29. No. 3
Pantea Hashemi, MD | Steven Q. Wang, MD

The incidence of melanoma has increased during the last few years. Melanoma care and
survival can be improved by early diagnosis, which can be facilitated by the use of
noninvasive imaging modalities. Here we review 5 modalities available in clinical practice.
Total body photography is used to follow patients at high risk for melanoma by detecting
new lesions or subtle changes in existing lesions. Dermoscopy is an effective noninvasive
technique for the early recognition of melanoma by allowing clinicians to visualize subsurface
structures. Computer-assisted diagnostic devices are fully automated analysis systems
with the capacity to classify lesions as benign or malignant with limited involvement
from clinicians. Confocal scanning laser microscopy is an in vivo and noninvasive technology
that examines the skin at a resolution comparable to that of histology. Highresolution
ultrasound is an adjunct diagnostic aid mainly for the early detection of lymph
node metastasis. Applications and limitations of each technology are discussed.
Semin Cutan Med Surg 29:174-184 © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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