Nodular melanoma serendipitously detected by airport full body scanners.

Background: Nodular melanoma is the most dangerous form of melanoma and often evades early detection.

Methods: We present a frequently traveling businessman whose nodular melanoma was detected by airport full body scanners.

Results: For about 20 flights over 2 months, the airport full body scanners singled out an area on his left lower leg for a pat-down. Dermatologic examination discovered a nodular melanoma in this area, and after surgical excision, the man traveled without incident.

Conclusion: This case raises the possibility of using full body imaging in the detection of melanomas, especially of the nodular subtype. In its current form, full body scanning would most likely not be sensitive or specific enough to become a recommended screening tool. Nonetheless, for travelers with areas repeatedly singled out by the machines without a known justification, airport scanners could serve as incidental free screening for suspicious nodular lesions that should prompt dermatologist referral.