Polymorphous vascular patterns in dermoscopy as a sign of malignant skin tumors. A case of an amelanotic melanoma and a porocarcinoma.

BACKGROUND

Using dermoscopy (dermatoscopy, epiluminescence microscopy), malignant skin tumors can be detected earlier and unnecessary excisions of benign tumors can be avoided.

OBJECTIVE

Description of the dermoscopic vascular patterns of an amelanotic melanoma and a porocarcinoma.

METHODS

Dermoscopy of an amelanotic melanoma and a porocarcinoma at 10-fold magnification.

RESULTS

On dermoscopy polymorphous vascular patterns with pinpoint and hairpin-like vessels were seen.

CONCLUSION

A reddish tumor without any pigmented network, globules or streaks but with polymorphous vascular patterns must be considered a malignant melanocytic or nonmelanocytic skin tumor.