A Cross-Sectional Study of Clinical, Dermoscopic, Histopathological, and Molecular Patterns of Scalp Melanoma in Patients With or Without Androgenetic Alopecia

This study investigated the characteristics of scalp melanoma (SM) in 154 patients, focusing on 48 with complete data, to compare those with and without androgenetic alopecia (AGA). It found that patients with AGA and elastosis were generally older and had more chronic sun damage, with specific SM subtypes like lentigo maligna being more common. Although Breslow thickness was slightly higher in patients without AGA or elastosis, the difference was not significant. BRAF mutations, particularly V600K, were common, linked to older age and sun damage. AGA was associated with photodamaged dermoscopic patterns and lower Breslow thickness, suggesting easier tumor visualization and earlier diagnosis. The study emphasizes early diagnosis and the influence of AGA and sun damage on SM characteristics, recommending proactive scalp screening.