Traumatic Tattoo: A Melanoma Mimic
The almost black nature of the lesion arouses suspicion for melanoma. A conservative excisional biopsy revealed this to be a traumatic tattoo, however.
A 58-year-old man became concerned when he first noticed a flat, dark area on his left upper arm. The lesion was set against a background of fairly severe photodamage. Family history was positive for melanoma (mother and 1 of 4 sisters).
Key point: The almost black nature of the lesion arouses suspicion for melanoma. This diagnostic concern is augmented by the variability in lesion color apparent on the close-up view. A conservative excisional biopsy, however, revealed this to be a traumatic tattoo (accidental or deliberate implantation of a dark-colored material, such as graphite or metal, into the dermis).
Treatment: The excisional biopsy led to complete removal, and thus served as definitive treatment.
Note: Many entities can be excellent clinical mimics. Histopathology is invaluable in determining the precise diagnosis.
Lebrikizumab Demonstrates Efficacy, Safety in Patients With Skin of Color With AD
June 11th 2025RAD 2025. Lebrikizumab improved skin clearance, itch, and pigmentation in patients with skin of color and atopic dermatitis, with strong safety data through 24 weeks, according to late-breaking data.
