Molecular diagnostics for ambiguous melanocytic tumors.

Molecular diagnostics for ambiguous melanocytic tumors.
Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2012 Dec;31(4):274-8
Authors: Shahbain H, Cooper C, Gerami P
Abstract
Certain subsets of melanocytic neoplasms are difficult to classify because of conflicting histologic features and the existence of a poorly defined intermediate grade of melanocytic tumors. The integration of molecular diagnostic information with a histologic impression may contribute significantly toward improving classification. This review discusses the development of and advances in molecular techniques, including comparative genomic hybridization and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) as diagnostic and prognostic tools for melanocytic neoplasms. Further, we discuss how specific molecular aberrations identified via FISH correlate with certain morphologies in melanocytic neoplasms. We also examine the prognostic value of FISH in intermediate-grade melanocytic tumors, particularly atypical Spitz tumors.
PMID: 23174498 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Source: Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery - November 14, 2014 Category: Dermatology Tags: Semin Cutan Med Surg Source Type: research