PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is a characteristic color of amelanotic melanoma?

1. Dark brown

2. Pink to red

3. Yellow

4. Gray

The correct answer is: Pink to red

Amelanotic melanoma is characterized by a lack of melanin production, which results in a non-pigmented or less pigmented appearance. This type of melanoma typically presents as a pink to red lesion, which can sometimes be mistaken for other benign skin conditions due to its color. This lack of pigmentation is what differentiates amelanotic melanoma from other melanoma types that display dark brown or black colors due to melanin presence. The presence of pink to red tones in amelanotic melanoma highlights the importance of recognizing these color variations in skin lesions, as they may not conform to the classic appearance of melanoma, potentially leading to delayed diagnosis. This emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to remain vigilant and consider differential diagnoses beyond classic signs when evaluating skin lesions.