Lesions in different skin types (dark, fair, sun-damaged)

Lesions in Different Skin Types (Dark, Fair, and Sun-Damaged) is an advanced course that delves into the nuances of dermoscopic evaluation for various skin types and conditions. Through detailed instruction and dermoscopic imagery, participants will gain expertise in identifying, diagnosing, and managing skin lesions.

The course provides an in-depth exploration of how factors such as skin type, pigmentary traits, and sun exposure influence the appearance and behaviour of skin lesions. Key topics include:
- Morphology of Skin Tumors:
- Understanding molecular alterations, pigmentation differences, and anatomical influences on lesion presentation.
- The role of genetic mutations in conditions such as Spitz nevi, blue nevi, and melanoma.
- Nevus Patterns Across Skin Types:
- Differentiating nevus patterns in fair skin (e.g., light brown, centrally hypopigmented lesions) versus dark skin (e.g., reticular or hyperpigmented nevi).
- Analysing age-related changes in nevi, from globular patterns in children to reticular patterns in adults and their gradual involution in the elderly.
- Epithelial Skin Malignancies and Pigmentation:
- Identifying pigmented basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma in darker skin tones.
- Recognising the diagnostic challenges posed by heavily pigmented lesions, including melanoma mimics.
- Differential Diagnosis of Facial Pigmented Macules:
- Distinguishing between lentigo maligna, solar lentigo, and pigmented actinic keratosis using dermoscopic clues such as follicular changes, grey coloration, and rhomboidal patterns.
- Recognising special body sites and their unique histological presentations.
- Practical Application of Dermoscopic Techniques:
- Techniques such as the tape test to clarify pigmentation and patterns, and comparative lesion analysis for holistic assessment.
- Identifying growth patterns, including streaks and globules, to detect aggressive melanomas early.

Through interactive discussions, case studies, and assessments, participants will refine their ability to integrate dermoscopic findings into clinical decision-making. By understanding the interplay of skin type, lesion morphology, and diagnostic techniques, this course empowers healthcare providers to achieve greater precision in skin cancer detection and management.

1. Detect lesions in different skin types

All degree qualified medical practitioners.