Sclerosing nevus with pseudomelanomatous features (Nevus with regression-like fibrosis): Clinical and dermoscopic features of a recently characterized histopathologic entity

BACKGROUND: Sclerosing nevi with pseudomelanomatous features or, else, nevi with regression-like fibrosis (NRLF) are histopathologic simulators of regressing melanoma. OBJECTIVE: We aimed at evaluating the clinical features in a series of NRLF. METHODS: Dermoscopic images of NRLF were re-evaluated according to the amount of regression, the presence of white/blue areas and the 7-point checklist. RESULTS: Forty-six lesions from 44 patients (M:F = 3.4:1; mean age: 42 years) were evaluated. Thirty-seven lesions were excised from the back, mostly from the scapular area. All the lesions were dermoscopically atypical, with large amounts of regression (>10% in 43 cases) and with coexistence of white and blue areas (41 cases). According to the 7-point checklist, 25 lesions were labeled as benign, probably because regression obscured other dermoscopic features of atypia. CONCLUSION: NRLF are mostly found in the convex area of the back. A better recognition of their clinicopathologic features can allow a more conservative management.