Non-randomized study of a new USB chromomicroscopic method for the diagnosis of superficial spreading melanomas

Background. In 2017, 35% of cases of stage I skin melanoma (SM) were registered in Russia, the rest cases -II-IV stages of the disease [1]. In order to earlier detection of SM appearing de novo or from melanocytic nevi, we have developed a non-invasive method of ZOOM-diagnostics by preliminary staining of the pathological formation with picrofuchsin and using a portable USB microscope with digital transmission to a computer or a screen of a robotic complex. Objective. Assessment of the state of diagnosis of SM and development of a non-invasive method for detecting early signs of malignancy of pigmented nevi (PN) and melanocytic dysplasias. Methods. The study included 54 patients (21 men, 23 women). The mean age of the patients was 57.4 years. To study the structures of the PN connective tissue, we performed Van Gieson staining. For the ZOOM diagnostics of superficial spreading SM and identification of the first signs of PN activation, a portable USB microscope was used. After clinical examination (medical history) of the patient and PN, the micromorphological signs (MMS) index was calculated. Results. When using this technique, 25.9±1.8% of the examined patients who independently applied to the oncologic center were diagnosed with SM in the horizontal growth phase of the disease. Conclusion. The ZOOM diagnostic method can be used at the stage of primary health care for the early detection of malignancy of superficial spreading pigmented skin formations and remote consultation.

superficial spreading melanomas, pigmented nevi, USB microscope, picrofuchsin, digital computer, robotic complex