Improved Identification of Potentially Dangerous Pigmented Skin Lesions by Computerized Image Analysis
Maria Jasmin Jamora, MD;
Brent D. Wainwright, MD;
Shane A. Meehan, MD;
Jean-Claude Bystryn, MD
Arch Dermatol. 2003;139:195-198.
Background Melanoma is completely curable if resected early. Unfortunately, early melanoma can be difficult to differentiate from other pigmented lesions. Computerized image analysis instruments have now been developed to assist in determining whether a pigmented lesion is potentially dangerous and requires biopsy. To evaluate whether one such instrument can improve the management of pigmented lesions, we obtained biopsy specimens from 52 pigmented lesions that appeared clinically benign to an experienced dermatologist but were suspicious by image analysis.
Observation Histologically, 9 (17%) of the lesions that were removed based solely on computer recommendation were potentially dangerous and should have been removed. These included 1 malignant melanoma in situ and 8 dysplastic nevi with moderate to severe cytologic atypia.
Conclusion The results of the present study indicate that computerized image analysis can improve the evaluation of pigmented skin lesions by identifying clinically unsuspicious, but potentially dangerous, lesions that might have otherwise have been neglected.
From the Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY.
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