Surg Cosmet Dermatol. 2026;18(3):1-7
We report 5 cases of melanoma with initial clinical presentations suggestive of common dermatoses, including seborrheic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, Bowen disease, actinic keratosis, and solar lentigo. In 4 cases, documented dermoscopy revealed findings discordant with the initial clinical impression and prompted biopsy; in 1 case, lesion evolution and recurrent bleeding prompted excision, confirming a thick nodular melanoma. This series highlights how familiar clinical patterns may promote diagnostic anchoring and delay suspicion. Lesion evolution, patient concern, total-body skin examination, systematic dermoscopy, and a low threshold for biopsy are practical strategies for reducing biases and improving early diagnosis.
Keywords: Melanoma; Dermoscopy; Diagnostic Errors
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