Skin tumours: dermoscopic pigment network: practice question

A Dermatology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Dermatology · Skin tumours: dermoscopic pigment network

Sample item

On dermoscopy of a pigmented lesion in a 45-year-old, the network is thick and irregular with abrupt cut-off at the periphery and several different colours. What does this suggest?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

C. Melanoma

An atypical pigment network with irregular lines, variable colours and abrupt termination is a dermoscopic feature of melanoma. It prompts excision biopsy.

Option by option

  • A. Haemangioma

    Haemangioma shows red-purple lacunae.

  • B. Dermatofibroma

    Dermatofibroma shows a central white patch with a delicate peripheral network.

  • C. Melanoma (correct)

    Correct. An atypical, irregular network suggests melanoma.

  • D. Seborrhoeic keratosis

    Seborrhoeic keratosis shows milia-like cysts and comedo-like openings.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Dermatology question

What is the answer to this Dermatology question?

The best answer is C, Melanoma. An atypical pigment network with irregular lines, variable colours and abrupt termination is a dermoscopic feature of melanoma.

Why is "Haemangioma" not the answer?

Haemangioma shows red-purple lacunae.

Why is "Dermatofibroma" not the answer?

Dermatofibroma shows a central white patch with a delicate peripheral network.

Why is "Seborrhoeic keratosis" not the answer?

Seborrhoeic keratosis shows milia-like cysts and comedo-like openings.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Skin tumours: dermoscopic pigment network in Dermatology. It prompts excision biopsy.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Skin tumours: dermoscopic pigment network?

Learn each condition by its primary lesion, site and signature sign. Then use the flashcards and the other Dermatology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.