Risk stratification (RS)(Kenet)

The risk stratification method (RS)(Kenet)

The risk stratification method (RS)(Kenet) (5-7) is based on a pattern analysis of the pigment network. Therefore, when perfoming dermatoscopy, first decide whether there is a pigment network or not. If not, consider if there is a regular globular pigment pattern. If this is not the case the lesions is probably not melanocytic.

It is noteworthy that thick malignant melanoma may show a uniform black, or bluegray pigmentation without presence or with only remnants of a pigment net at the edge of the lesion.

If there is no sign of a network or globular pigment pattern, other pigmented lesions must be considered (see RS Class 5).
In case of a pigment network in the lesion the next step is to analyse it further: Is it normal or abnormal. It is the main concept of RS that you first look for the classical signs of malignant melanoma:

Fig. 5

Fig. 13
Class 1. Probable Melanoma

Pseudopods

Radial streaming

Thick dark network lines at the edge

Bluegray areas, white scarlike areas or whitish
veil (in presence of a network)
(Figs 5 and13)

Fig. 5 Fig. 13	Class 1. Probable Melanoma Pseudopods Radial streaming Thick dark network lines at the edge Bluegray areas, white scarlike areas or whitish veil (in presence of a network) (Figs 5 and13)