Dermoscopy Features of Benign Melanocytic Nevi: A Cross-Sectional Analysis (Code-T0124)

Introduction: Benign melanocytic nevi are common skin lesions with varied clinical presentations. Dermoscopy, a non-invasive diagnostic tool, has significantly improved the accuracy of evaluating these lesions, helping differentiate benign nevi from malignant melanomas.

Aims and Objectives:

To assess the dermoscopic findings in different types of benign melanocytic nevus with respect to pattern of pigmentation as globular, reticular, homogenous, parallel and streaks.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving patients with clinically diagnosed benign melanocytic nevi. Dermoscopic examinations were performed using a polarized dermoscope, and features such as pigment network, globules, streaks, and homogenous areas were systematically recorded. The nevi were classified based on their dermoscopic patterns, and statistical analysis was carried out to determine the frequency and distribution of these features.

Results: Among the lesions studied, the reticular pattern was the most common dermoscopic feature observed (50%), followed by the globular pattern (30%) and homogeneous pattern (20%). Symmetry and uniform pigmentation were consistent findings in benign nevi. No malignant dermoscopic criteria, such as atypical network or irregular streaks, were observed in the studied lesions. Significant variations in dermoscopic features were noted with age, anatomical site, and skin phototype.

Conclusion: Dermoscopy reveals distinct patterns in benign melanocytic nevi, aiding in their differentiation from malignant lesions. This study underscores the importance of incorporating dermoscopy into routine dermatological practice for early and accurate lesion evaluation.

Keywords: dermoscopy, benign melanocytic nevi, diagnostic accuracy, pigment network, globular pattern, non-invasive diagnosis.