The Evaluation of Clinical and Dermatoscopic Features of Scalp Nevi in Adults.

INTRODUCTION

The dermatoscopic appearance of scalp tumors, especially melanocytic scalp lesions, differs from that on other body areas. Few studies have revealed the dermatoscopic characteristics of scalp nevi.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to establish the clinical and dermatoscopic features of scalp nevi in adults and to compare dermatoscopic patterns according to the demographic and clinical features.

METHODS

This prospective study included 129 adult patients with 253 nevi. Demographic data of patients, clinical characteristics, and dermatoscopic features were recorded and compared.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 86 females (67%) and 43 males (33%) with a median age of 33.6 ± 11.3 years. The eclipse/reverse eclipse patterns were observed more frequently, while the papillomatous pattern was notably less common among younger patients than in older patients (P<0.001). The mean diameter of nevi was smaller in reticular pattern and larger in eclipse/reverse eclipse patterns (P<0.001). Vascular structures were present in 35.2% (N=89) of the nevi. While vessels were not observed in reticular pattern, vessels were present in 70% of the papillomatous pattern (P<0.001). Perifollicular hypopigmentation was observed in 53.8% (N=136) of the scalp nevi, and it was seen in almost all eclipse/reverse eclipse and reticular patterns (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Dermatoscopic evaluation of scalp nevi provides more detailed information, helps to make a correct diagnosis, and facilitates patient management compared to clinical examination alone. Increasing awareness of the clinical characteristics and dermatoscopic features of scalp nevi can potentially decrease unnecessary surgical excisions.