Intraoperative dermoscopy features of subungual squamous cell carcinoma: a study of 53 cases

Intra-operative dermoscopy (onychoscopy) of the nail unit-A systematic review

Dermoscopy of the nail unit (onychoscopy) is a method which allows for non-invasive observation of the nail structures, increasing the accuracy of clinical diagnosis. Currently, it is used in evaluation of both inflammatory and neoplastic conditions of the nail unit. However, in contrast to the skin, the anatomy of the nail unit prevents direct observation of nail bed or nail matrix structure during classic onychoscopy. Intra-operative onychoscopy is a variant of the technique which uses direct visualization of the nail unit structures after nail plate avulsion. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the current state of knowledge on intra-operative onychoscopy. The MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane databases were systematically searched in January 2024. All types of study designs assessing intra-operative dermoscopy of the nail unit were included in this study. The risk of bias in included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. The qualitative synthesis of 19 studies totalling a number of 218 cases in 217 patients included the following entities: melanoma, nevus, hypermelanosis (melanocytic activation), melanocytic hyperplasia, melanophages accumulation, squamous cell carcinoma, glomus tumour, lichen planus, onychomatricoma, onychomycosis and subungual exostosis. The main limitation of the study was a relatively low number of identified studies, most with low levels of evidence. Intra-operative onychoscopy does not replace histologic examination, though it may be useful in determining the modality of surgical diagnostic procedures.

Advances in image-based diagnosis of nail disorders

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of image-based techniques, particularly focusing on their applications and advancements in the context of nail disorders. Nowadays, high-resolution digital cameras and dermoscopes enable dermatologists to capture detailed images of nail abnormalities, facilitating early diagnosis and meticulous tracking of disease progression. Onychoscopy is now a routine technique with well-known criteria for the diagnosis, but recent developments allow us to visualize certain diseases better. Imaging modalities like high-frequency ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, optical coherence tomography and confocal microscopy are being increasingly adopted for their superior diagnostic capabilities. These techniques are described in their technology, scanning protocols, normal findings, advantages and limitations. Moreover, the integration of technology in patient education has fostered a more informed patient population, capable of actively participating in their disease monitoring and treatment regimens. Proper training, validation, regulation and ethical considerations are, however, essential when integrating technology into healthcare practices. Imaging technologies that present the potential to add critical anatomical information to clinical diagnoses within reasonable costs and are available worldwide are the ones that will probably be used the most.

Update on Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Nail Unit: An Human Papillomavirus-Associated Condition

Background

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and SCC in situ (Bowen's disease) are the most common malignancies of the nail unit. They are frequently seen in men over 50 and most commonly affect the fingers. The role of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been identified as a key contributor to the development of nail unit SCC.

Summary

In this review, we aimed to summarize the current state of our understanding of how HPV contributes to nail unit SCC, the role of genitodigital transmission of HPV, and the clinical features of HPV-associated nail unit SCC. We also review current advances in the treatment of nail unit SCC, with a focus on the potential role of HPV vaccination in the treatment and prevention of nail unit SCC.

Key Messages

Nail unit SCC should be recognized as an HPV-associated disease. HPV vaccination may represent a non-surgical modality for the management of these challenging malignancies in the appropriate clinical setting.

Frequency of Publication of Dermoscopic Images in Inter-observer Studies: A Systematic Review

Research interest in dermoscopy is increasing, but the complete dermoscopic image sets used in inter-observer studies of skin tumours are not often shared in research publications. The aim of this systematic review was to analyse what proportion of images depicting skin tumours are published in studies investigating inter-observer variations in the assessment of dermoscopic features and/or patterns. Embase, MEDLINE and Scopus databases were screened for eligible studies published from inception to 2 July 2020. For included studies the proportion of lesion images presented in the papers and/or supplements was extracted. A total of 61 studies (53 original studies and 8 shorter reports (i.e. research letters or concise reports)). published in the period 1997 to 2020 were included. These studies combined included 14,124 skin tumours, of which 373 (3%) images were published. This systematic review highlights that the vast majority of images included in dermoscopy research are not published. Data sharing should be a requirement for future studies, and must be enabled and standardized by the dermatology research community and editorial offices.