Prevalence and distribution of melanocytic naevi on the scalp: a prospective study

Abstract

Despite practical difficulties, early diagnostic screening for melanoma or screening during follow-up examination for previous melanoma should involve examination of the entire skin surface, scalp included.

Proposal for a clinical-dermoscopic classification of scalp naevi

“…About 30% of our study participants had more than one naevus on the scalp, and this number is comparable with previous studies . However, only about one‐quarter of our interviewed volunteers were aware of having a scalp naevus.…”

“…A previous study reported a 33·6% prevalence of scalp naevi in a study cohort of 795 subjects . This number is higher than the observed 13·7% prevalence in our study.…”

“…Firstly, participants in our study attended a skin cancer screening programme and thus represent a selected group of the entire population. Secondly, we did not investigate whether naevus types differ with respect to their specific location on the scalp, as shown in two previous studies . Thirdly, we did not test the validity and specificity of our classification in a prospective setting.…”

“…For example, scalp melanoma has a worse prognosis than thickness‐matched melanoma of the trunk, and blue naevi have a certain predilection for the scalp . Scalp naevi appear to be indicators of persons with an above average total naevus count . Finally, a certain proportion of scalp naevi may exhibit marked atypia upon histopathology .…”

Indicators for the total number of melanocytic naevi: an adjunct for screening campaigns. Observational study on 292 patients

“…In order to identify at‐risk patients in a rapid and practical manner during medical check‐ups, many studies have used naevus counts on selected body sites as a proxy for total body naevus count. However, information on the relationship between site‐specific and total naevus counts in adults is scarce . The correlation between site‐specific and total body naevus counts appears to be highest for the arms, although results have not been consistent across studies or sexes.…”