Management of Melanocytic Lesions in the Primary Care Setting

As the incidence of melanoma continues to increase, the role of primary care physicians in managing suspect melanocytic lesions will become increasingly important. The management of suspect melanocytic lesions in the primary care setting can be challenging, and a missed diagnosis of melanoma can have devastating consequences. This review focuses on practical aspects of the evaluation of melanocytic lesions, including patient history, physical examination findings, and the natural history of nevi and melanoma. It also discusses melanocytic lesions that warrant special attention and outlines information that should be provided on the pathology requisition form. Finally, it addresses the potential difficulties in interpreting pathology reports and reviews the implications of pathology results for patient counseling, education, and follow-up.