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Mansour B, Vanecek T, Kastnerova L, Nosek D, Kazakov DV, Donati M. Spitz Tumor With SQSTM1::NTRK2 Fusion: A Clinicopathological Study of 5 Cases. Am J Dermatopathol 2023; 45:306-310. [PMID: 36939120 DOI: 10.1097/dad.0000000000002410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Spitz tumors are melanocytic neoplasms characterized by specific, mutually exclusive driver molecular events, namely genomic rearrangements involving the threonine kinase BRAF and the tyrosine kinase receptors ALK , NTRK1 , NTRK2 , NTRK3 , MET , RET , ROS1 , and MAP3K8 or less commonly, mutations in HRAS or MAP2K1 . We hereby report 5 Spitz tumors with a SQSTM1::NTRK2 fusion. All patients were woman with the ages at diagnosis ranging from 30 to 50 years. Locations included the lower extremity (n = 3), forearm, and back (one each). All the neoplasms were superficial melanocytic proliferation with a flat to dome-shaped silhouette, in which junctional spindled and polygonal dendritic melanocytes were mainly arranged as horizontal nests associated with conspicuous lentiginous involvement of the follicular epithelium. Only one case showed heavily pigmented, vertically oriented melanocytic nests resembling Reed nevus. A superficial intradermal component observed in 2 cases appeared as small nests with a back-to-back configuration. In all lesions, next-generation sequencing analysis identified a SQSTM1::NTRK2 fusion. A single case studied with fluorescence in situ hybridization for copy number changes in melanoma-related genes proved negative. No further molecular alterations were detected, including TERT-p hotspot mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boulos Mansour
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Roma, Italy
| | - Tomas Vanecek
- Sikl's Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty in Pilsen, Charles University in Prague, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Liubov Kastnerova
- Sikl's Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty in Pilsen, Charles University in Prague, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Nosek
- Department of Pathology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; and
| | - Dmitry V Kazakov
- IDP Institut für Dermatohistopathologie, Pathologie Institut Enge, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Michele Donati
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Roma, Italy
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2
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Yeh I. Melanocytic naevi, melanocytomas and emerging concepts. Pathology 2023; 55:178-186. [PMID: 36642570 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2022.12.341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
With the elucidation of the genetics of melanocytic tumours, new concepts have emerged. An important one is the identification of 'intermediate' melanocytic tumours, those with genetic progression events beyond those of melanocytic naevi but that are not fully malignant. Thus, melanocytic tumours exist on a genetic spectrum that likely corresponds to biological behaviour. There are multiple pathways to melanoma development with different initiating events and characteristic benign melanocytic neoplasms and the precise placement of tumours on these pathways remains to be established and the corresponding risks of progression quantified. In this review, I discuss the classification of melanocytic naevi based on clinical, histopathological and genetic features, as well as the concept of melanocytomas with discussion of specific recognisable subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwei Yeh
- Departments of Dermatology and Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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McAfee JL, Scarborough R, Jia XS, Azzato EM, Astbury C, Ronen S, Andea AA, Billings SD, Ko JS. Combined utility of p16 and BRAF V600E in the evaluation of spitzoid tumors: Superiority to PRAME and correlation with FISH. J Cutan Pathol 2023; 50:155-168. [PMID: 36261329 PMCID: PMC10099989 DOI: 10.1111/cup.14342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spitzoid melanocytic neoplasms are diagnostically challenging; criteria for malignancy continue to evolve. The ability to predict chromosomal abnormalities with immunohistochemistry (IHC) could help select cases requiring chromosomal evaluation. METHODS Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)-tested spitzoid neoplasms at our institution (2013-2021) were reviewed. p16, BRAF V600E, and preferentially expressed antigen in melanoma (PRAME) IHC results were correlated with FISH. RESULTS A total of 174 cases (1.9F:1M, median age 28 years; range, 5 months-74 years) were included; final diagnoses: Spitz nevus (11%), atypical Spitz tumor (47%), spitzoid dysplastic nevus (9%), and spitzoid melanoma (32%). Sixty (34%) were FISH positive, most commonly with absolute 6p25 gain (RREB1 > 2). Dermal mitotic count was the only clinicopathologic predictor of FISH. Among IHC-stained cases, p16 was lost in 55 of 134 cases (41%); loss correlated with FISH positive (p < 0.001, Fisher exact test). BRAF V600E (14/88, 16%) and PRAME (15/56, 27%) expression did not correlate with FISH alone (p = 0.242 and p = 0.359, respectively, Fisher exact test). When examined together, however, p16-retained/BRAF V600E-negative lesions had low FISH-positive rates (5/37, 14%; 4/37, 11% not counting isolated MYB loss); all other marker combinations had high rates (56%-75% of cases; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS p16/BRAF V600E IHC predicts FISH results. "Low-risk" lesions (p16+ /BRAF V600E- ) uncommonly have meaningful FISH abnormalities (11%). PRAME may have limited utility in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- John L McAfee
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Xuefei Sophia Jia
- Quantitative Health Sciences, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Azzato
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Cytogenetics, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Caroline Astbury
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Cytogenetics, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Shira Ronen
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Aleodor A Andea
- Department of Molecular Genetic Pathology and Dermatopathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Steven D Billings
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jennifer S Ko
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Yeh I. Update on classification of melanocytic tumors and the role of immunohistochemistry and molecular techniques. Semin Diagn Pathol 2022; 39:248-256. [DOI: 10.1053/j.semdp.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Retrospective Cohort: Genomic Differences Between Pigmented Spindle Cell Nevi of Reed and Reed-Like Melanomas. Am J Dermatopathol 2021; 42:641-647. [PMID: 32000215 DOI: 10.1097/dad.0000000000001603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some melanomas closely resemble pigmented spindle cell nevi (PSCN) of Reed histologically. The distinction of these entities is important for clinical management. A recent study showed most PSCN (78%) are fusion-driven, commonly involving NTRK3 (57%). Conversely, BRAF V600E mutations are not characteristic of PSCN but are frequent in melanoma. OBJECTIVE In this study, we assessed clinical, histologic and genomic differences between PSCN of Reed and Reed-like melanomas (RLMs). METHODS We performed BRAF V600E immunohistochemistry (IHC) for 18 PSCN and 20 RLM cases. All 23 benign PSCN cases previously underwent whole transcriptome and targeted DNA sequencing with a 1711 gene panel. RESULTS We previously demonstrated the majority of PSCN (18 of 23) has chimeric fusions. Among PSCN without a chimeric fusion, BRAF mutations were common. Noncanonical BRAF mutations were identified in 2 of 5 nonfusion cases, and 1 case had a canonical BRAF mutation. Alternatively, 70% of RLM demonstrated a BRAF V600E mutation. RLM also occurred more frequently in older patients. LIMITATIONS The overall sample size was small. CONCLUSIONS In diagnostically challenging cases, ancillary IHC studies can assist in distinguishing PSCN from RLM. Our study suggests positive staining by IHC for BRAF V600E and older age strongly favors a diagnosis of RLM.
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Parra O, Lefferts JA, Tafe LJ, Gru AA, Linos K. Cross-reactivity of NRASQ61R antibody in a subset of Spitz nevi with 11p gain: a potential confounding factor in the era of pathway-based diagnostic approach. Hum Pathol 2021; 112:35-47. [PMID: 33636207 PMCID: PMC10947247 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2021.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The most recent World Health Organization classification for skin tumors (2018) categorizes melanomas and their precursor lesions, benign or intermediate, into nine pathways based not only on their clinical and histomorphologic characteristics but also on their molecular profile and genetic fingerprint. In an index case of a partially sampled atypical spitzoid lesion, which proved to be an 11p-amplified Spitz nevus with HRASQ61R mutation, we observed cross-reactivity with the NRASQ61R antibody (clone SP174). Overall, we assessed the status of HRAS and NRAS genes and their immunoreaction to NRASQ61R antibody in 16 cases of 11p-amplified Spitz nevi/atypical Spitz tumors. We also assessed the immunoexpression of NRASQ61R antibody in various malignancies with proven BRAFV600E, NRASQ61R, L or K, KRASQ61R and HRASQ61R, and HRASQ61R mutations and ALK+ Spitz lesions. Finally, we assessed the expression of PReferentially expressed Antigen in MElanoma (PRAME) immunohistochemistry in our 11p Spitz cohort. Three of 16 cases (3/16) harbored the HRASQ61R mutation and exhibited diffuse immunoreaction with the NRASQ61R antibody. All the cases in our cohort were negative for the NRASQ61R mutation. All NRASQ61R-, KRASQ61R-, and HRASQ61R-mutated neoplasms were positive for the antibody, further supporting the cross-reactivity between the RAS proteins. All the cases of our cohort were essentially negative for PRAME immunohistochemistry. In the era of pathway-based approach in the diagnosis of melanocytic neoplasms, the cross-reactivity between the NRASQ61R- and HRASQ61R-mutated proteins can lead to a diagnostic pitfall in the assessment of lesions with spitzoid characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ourania Parra
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, 03766, USA
| | - Joel A Lefferts
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, 03766, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - Laura J Tafe
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, 03766, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - Alejandro A Gru
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22903, USA
| | - Konstantinos Linos
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, 03766, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA.
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Hillen LM, Geybels MS, Spassova I, Becker JC, Gambichler T, Garmyn M, Zur Hausen A, van den Oord J, Winnepenninckx V. A digital mRNA expression signature to classify challenging Spitzoid melanocytic neoplasms. FEBS Open Bio 2020; 10:1326-1341. [PMID: 32431053 PMCID: PMC7327909 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.12897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Spitzoid neoplasms are a challenging group of cutaneous melanocytic proliferations. They are characterized by epithelioid and/or spindle-shaped melanocytes and classified as benign Spitz nevi (SN), atypical Spitz tumors (AST), or malignant Spitz tumors (MST). The intermediate AST category represents a diagnostically challenging group since on purely histopathological grounds, their benign or malignant character remains unpredictable. This results in uncertainties in patient treatment and prognosis. The molecular properties of Spitzoid lesions, especially their transcriptomic landscape, remain poorly understood, and genomic alterations in melanoma-associated oncogenes are typically absent. The aim of this study was to characterize their transcriptome with digital mRNA expression profiling. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples (including 27 SN, 10 AST, and 14 MST) were analyzed using the NanoString nCounter PanCancer Pathways Panel. The number of significantly differentially expressed genes in SN vs. MST, SN vs. AST, and AST vs. MST was 68, 167, and 18, respectively. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed upregulation of pathways related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition and immunomodulatory-, angiogenesis-, hormonal-, and myogenesis-associated processes in AST and MST. A molecular signature of SN vs. MST was discovered based on the top-ranked most informative genes: NRAS, NF1, BMP2, EIF2B4, IFNA17, and FZD9. The AST samples showed intermediate levels of the identified signature. This implies that the gene signature can potentially be used to distinguish high-grade from low-grade AST with a larger study cohort in the future. This combined histopathological and transcriptomic methodology is promising for prospective diagnostics of Spitzoid neoplasms and patient management in dermatological oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Hillen
- Department of Pathology, GROW-School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Milan S Geybels
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ivelina Spassova
- Department for Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jürgen C Becker
- Department for Translational Skin Cancer Research (TSCR), German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.,Deutsches Krebsforschungsinstitut (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thilo Gambichler
- Department of Dermatology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Marjan Garmyn
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Department of Oncology and Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Leuven, University of Leuven KUL, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Axel Zur Hausen
- Department of Pathology, GROW-School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Joost van den Oord
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals of Leuven, University of Leuven KUL, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory Translational Cell and Tissue Research, University of Leuven, KU, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Véronique Winnepenninckx
- Department of Pathology, GROW-School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Raghavan SS, Peternel S, Mully TW, North JP, Pincus LB, LeBoit PE, McCalmont TH, Bastian BC, Yeh I. Spitz melanoma is a distinct subset of spitzoid melanoma. Mod Pathol 2020; 33:1122-1134. [PMID: 31900433 PMCID: PMC7286778 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-019-0445-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Melanomas that have histopathologic features that overlap with those of Spitz nevus are referred to as spitzoid melanomas. However, the diagnostic concept is used inconsistently and genomic analyses suggest it is a heterogeneous category. Spitz tumors, the spectrum of melanocytic neoplasms extending from Spitz nevi to their malignant counterpart Spitz melanoma, are defined in the 2018 WHO classification of skin tumors by the presence of specific genetic alterations, such as kinase fusions or HRAS mutations. It is unclear what fraction of "spitzoid melanomas" defined solely by their histopathologic features belong to the category of Spitz melanoma or to other melanoma subtypes. We assembled a cohort of 25 spitzoid melanomas diagnosed at a single institution over an 8-year period and performed high-coverage DNA sequencing of 480 cancer related genes. Transcriptome wide RNA sequencing was performed for select cases. Only nine cases (36%) had genetic alterations characteristic of Spitz melanoma, including HRAS mutation or fusion involving BRAF, ALK, NTRK1, or MAP3K8. The remaining cases were divided into those with an MAPK activating mutation and those without an MAPK activating mutation. Both Spitz melanoma and spitzoid melanomas in which an MAPK-activating mutation could not be identified tended to occur in younger patients on skin with little solar elastosis, infrequently harbored TERT promoter mutations, and had a lower burden of pathogenic mutations than spitzoid melanomas with non-Spitz MAPK-activating mutations. The MAPK-activating mutations identified affected non-V600 residues of BRAF as well as NRAS, MAP2K1/2, NF1, and KIT, while BRAF V600 mutations, the most common mutations in melanomas of the WHO low-CSD category, were entirely absent. While the "spitzoid melanomas" comprising our cohort were enriched for bona fide Spitz melanomas, the majority of melanomas fell outside of the genetically defined category of Spitz melanomas, indicating that histomorphology is an unreliable predictor of Spitz lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandra Peternel
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Dermatovenerology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Thaddeus W Mully
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jeffrey P North
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Laura B Pincus
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Philip E LeBoit
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Timothy H McCalmont
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Boris C Bastian
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Iwei Yeh
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Yeh I. New and evolving concepts of melanocytic nevi and melanocytomas. Mod Pathol 2020; 33:1-14. [PMID: 31659277 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-019-0390-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In daily clinical practice melanocytic nevi are commonly encountered. Traditionally, both benign and malignant melanocytic tumors have been sub-classified by their histopathologic characteristics with differing criteria for malignancy applied to each group. Recently, many of the mutations that initiate nevus formation have been identified and specific sets of mutations are found in different subtypes of nevi. Whereas a single mutation appears sufficient to initiate a nevus, but is not enough to result in melanoma, specific combinations of mutations have been identified in some melanocytic tumors that are regarded to be of low biologic potential. The term "melanocytoma" has recently been proposed by the World Health Organization to describe those tumors that demonstrate genetic progression beyond the single mutations that are found in nevi but are not frankly malignant. Melanocytomas occupy intermediate genetic stages between nevus and melanoma and likely have an increased risk of malignant transformation as compared to nevi. This review provides an update on the broad spectrum of melanocytic nevi and melanocytomas and outlines their key histopathologic and genetic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwei Yeh
- Departments of Dermatology and Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, 1701 Divisadero St. Ste. 280, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
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10
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Ghasemi M, Vahedi Larijani L, Emadian O, Yazdani J, Sajadianfar A, Abediankenari S. Immunohistochemical Investigation of Mutant BRAF V600E in Common Pigmented Skin Neoplasms, Study on a Sample of Iranian Patients. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2019; 14:8-16. [PMID: 31531096 PMCID: PMC6708560 DOI: 10.30699/ijp.14.1.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background & Objective: This study was designed for the first time for the detec- tion of mutant BRAF V600E and its correlation with clinicophathologic features in a sample of Iranian patients with pathologically proved pigmented skin neoplasms. Methods: 82 paraffin-embedded blocks, including melanocytic nevi, malignant melanoma, Basel cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma were evaluated for BRAF V600E expression by immunohistochemistry in the patients admitted to Ibn Sina Hospital, in the city of Sari, Mazandaran province, North of Iran. The evaluation of immunohistochemical staining was performed by two of the authoring pathologists, and staining intensity was graded from negative (0), weak (1+), moderate (2+) to strong (3+). If twenty percent (or greater) of the tumor cells showed modest to strong cytoplasmic immunoreactivity (score 3+), the neoplasm was considered positive for this tumor marker. Results: Among 82 studied patients, 12 cases (60%) of the malignant melanoma group revealed a high intensity of immunostaining for BRAF V600E, while a signifi- cant expression of this marker did not occur in the other investigated skin neoplasm. A great relation between BRAF (V600E) expression and the histologic type of skin cancer was noted. No significant relationship with other parameters such as gender, age, and the grade differentiation of the non-melanoma skin cancer was found. BRAF V600E was weakly correlated with the Clark level of cutaneous malignant melanoma. Conclusion: This data provided further evidence for the strong role of the BRAF V600E mutation in the development of cutaneous malignant melanoma, compared to non-melanoma skin cancers in the North of Iran. We advised future studies to evaluate the beneficial effects of anti-BRAF V600E target therapy on the Iranian melanoma patient who harbors this marker by way of immunostaining tumor tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ghasemi
- Associate Professor, Dept. of Pathology, Immunogenetics Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | | | - Omid Emadian
- Associate Professor, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Jamshid Yazdani
- Associate Professor, Dept. of Health, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | | | - Saeid Abediankenari
- Professor, Immunogenetics Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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Abstract
Adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with cancer have not attained the same improvements in overall survival as either younger children or older adults. One possible reason for this disparity may be that the AYA cancers exhibit unique biologic characteristics, resulting in differences in clinical and treatment resistance behaviors. Our current understanding of the unique biological/genomic characteristics of AYA cancers is limited. However, there has been some progress that has provided clues about the biology of AYA cancers. We here review the latest findings in the area of AYA cancer biology and discuss what is required to advance the field for the more effective treatment of this patient population.
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12
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Hillen LM, Van den Oord J, Geybels MS, Becker JC, Zur Hausen A, Winnepenninckx V. Genomic Landscape of Spitzoid Neoplasms Impacting Patient Management. Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 5:344. [PMID: 30619857 PMCID: PMC6300473 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2018.00344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Spitzoid neoplasms are a distinct group of melanocytic proliferations characterized by epithelioid and/ or spindle shaped melanocytes. Intermediate forms that share features of both benign Spitz nevi (SN) and Spitz melanoma, i.e., malignant Spitz tumor (MST) represent a diagnostically and clinically challenging group of melanocytic lesions. A multitude of descriptive diagnostic terms exist for these ambiguous lesions with atypical Spitz tumor (AST) or Spitz tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) just naming two of them. This diagnostic gray zone creates confusion and high insecurity in clinicians and in patients. Biological behavior and clinical course of this intermediate group still remains largely unknown, often leading to difficulties with uncertainties in clinical management and prognosis. Consequently, a better stratification of Spitzoid neoplasms in benign and malignant forms is required thereby keeping the diagnostic group of AST/STUMP as small as possible. Ancillary diagnostic techniques such as immunohistochemistry, comparative genomic hybridization, fluorescence in situ hybridization, next generation sequencing, micro RNA and mRNA analysis as well as mass spectrometry imaging offer new opportunities for the distinct diagnosis, thereby allowing the best clinical management of Spitzoid neoplasms. This review gives an overview on these additional diagnostic techniques and the recent developments in the field of molecular genetic alterations in Spitzoid neoplasms. We also discuss how the recent findings might facilitate the diagnosis and stratification of atypical Spitzoid neoplasms and how these findings will impact the diagnostic work up as well as patient management. We suggest a stepwise implementation of ancillary diagnostic techniques thereby integrating immunohistochemistry and molecular pathology findings in the diagnosis of challenging ambiguous Spitzoid neoplasms. Finally, we will give an outlook on pending future research objectives in the field of Spitzoid melanocytic lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Hillen
- Department of Pathology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Joost Van den Oord
- Laboratory for Translational Cell and Tissue Research, Department of Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Milan S Geybels
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jürgen C Becker
- Institute for Translational Skin Cancer Research, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Essen, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Axel Zur Hausen
- Department of Pathology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Véronique Winnepenninckx
- Department of Pathology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands
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Armengot-Carbó M, Nagore E, García-Casado Z, Botella-Estrada R. The association between dermoscopic features and BRAF mutational status in cutaneous melanoma: Significance of the blue-white veil. J Am Acad Dermatol 2018; 78:920-926.e4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2017.12.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/24/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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14
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Reevaluation of established and new criteria in differential diagnosis of Spitz nevus and melanoma. Arch Dermatol Res 2018; 310:329-342. [DOI: 10.1007/s00403-018-1818-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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15
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Abstract
Spitz tumors are melanocytic neoplasms hallmarked by large cell size, lack of high-grade atypia, and a regular architecture. Most are nonpigmented or poorly pigmented. Malignant potential ranges from absent (Spitz nevus), to fully present (spitzoid melanoma), with a further, ill-defined group of Spitz tumors with limited metastatic potential. Microscopic evaluation may prove inconclusive in some instances, resulting in a verdict of Spitz tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP). STUMP is, therefore, not an entity, and should not be equated with Spitz tumors with limited metastatic potential. Novel diagnostic techniques are yielding promising results, and further evaluation is ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
- F D Menezes
- Department of Pathology, Instituto Portugues de Oncologia do Porto FG, Rua Dr Antonio Bernardino de Almeida, Porto 4200-072, Portugal
| | - W J Mooi
- Department of Pathology, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, Amsterdam 1007 MB, The Netherlands.
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16
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Stefanaki C, Chardalias L, Soura E, Katsarou A, Stratigos A. Paediatric melanoma. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2017; 31:1604-1615. [PMID: 28449284 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.14299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Paediatric melanoma, although rare, is the most common skin cancer in children. Our current knowledge on paediatric melanoma incidence trends is expanding, as several studies have addressed this issue with conflicting results. Known risk factors for paediatric melanoma include family history of melanoma, a previous history of malignancy, large congenital nevi, numerous melanocytic nevi, sunburns, increased UV exposure and a sun-sensitive phenotype. In younger children, melanoma more often presents with atypical features, such as a changing, amelanotic or uniformly coloured, often bleeding lesion, not fulfilling in most cases the conventional ABCDE criteria. The major differential diagnoses are melanocytic nevi, proliferative nodules in congenital nevi and atypical Spitz tumours. Moreover, in the younger age group non-Caucasian children are over-represented, tumours tend to be thicker and lymph nodes are often involved. Despite the frequent diagnosis at an advanced stage, the overall survival is fair in paediatric melanoma. Specific guidelines for management of melanoma in children do not exist, and most often the disease is treated similarly to melanoma in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Stefanaki
- University Department of Dermatology - Venereology, "Andreas Sygros" Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - L Chardalias
- University Department of Dermatology - Venereology, "Andreas Sygros" Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - E Soura
- University Department of Dermatology - Venereology, "Andreas Sygros" Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - A Katsarou
- University Department of Dermatology - Venereology, "Andreas Sygros" Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - A Stratigos
- University Department of Dermatology - Venereology, "Andreas Sygros" Hospital, Athens, Greece
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17
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Dika E, Ravaioli GM, Fanti PA, Neri I, Patrizi A. Spitz Nevi and Other Spitzoid Neoplasms in Children: Overview of Incidence Data and Diagnostic Criteria. Pediatr Dermatol 2017; 34:25-32. [PMID: 27874206 DOI: 10.1111/pde.13025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Spitz nevi are benign melanocytic neoplasms characterized by epithelioid or spindle melanocytes or both. In some rare cases their presentation overlaps with the clinical and histopathologic features of malignant melanoma, so a differential diagnosis can be difficult to make. Intermediate forms between Spitz nevi and malignant melanoma, with unpredictable behavior, have been called atypical Spitz tumors. A literature search was performed to review the clinical, dermoscopic, genetic, and histopathologic aspects of spitzoid tumors. Spitz nevi mainly occur in children, with no predilection for sex, and in young women. Common sites are the head and lower arms, where Spitz nevi present as pink nodules or hyperpigmented plaques. Spitzoid lesions may have diverse dermoscopic patterns: vascular, starburst, globular, atypical, reticular, negative homogeneous, or targetoid. The management of spitzoid lesions can be invasive or conservative; surgical excision is usually reserved for those with doubtful features, whereas clinical and dermoscopic follow-up is preferred for typical pediatric Spitz nevi. The role of sentinel lymph node biopsy in atypical Spitz tumors is debated. Immunohistochemistry and new molecular techniques such as comparative genomic hybridization, polymerase chain reaction, and fluorescence in situ hybridization offer new diagnostic perspectives, investigating genetic alterations that are specific for malignant melanoma or for Spitz nevi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emi Dika
- Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Maria Ravaioli
- Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Pier Alessandro Fanti
- Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Iria Neri
- Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Patrizi
- Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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18
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Tricoli JV, Bleyer A, Anninga J, Barr R. The Biology of AYA Cancers. CANCER IN ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG ADULTS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-33679-4_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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19
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Roh MR, Eliades P, Gupta S, Tsao H. Genetics of melanocytic nevi. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2016; 28:661-72. [PMID: 26300491 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Melanocytic nevi are a benign clonal proliferation of cells expressing the melanocytic phenotype, with heterogeneous clinical and molecular characteristics. In this review, we discuss the genetics of nevi by salient nevi subtypes: congenital melanocytic nevi, acquired melanocytic nevi, blue nevi, and Spitz nevi. While the molecular etiology of nevi has been less thoroughly studied than melanoma, it is clear that nevi and melanoma share common driver mutations. Acquired melanocytic nevi harbor oncogenic mutations in BRAF, which is the predominant oncogene associated with melanoma. Congenital melanocytic nevi and blue nevi frequently harbor NRAS mutations and GNAQ mutations, respectively, while Spitz and atypical Spitz tumors often exhibit HRAS and kinase rearrangements. These initial 'driver' mutations are thought to trigger the establishment of benign nevi. After this initial phase of the cell proliferation, a senescence program is executed, causing termination of nevi growth. Only upon the emergence of additional tumorigenic alterations, which may provide an escape from oncogene-induced senescence, can malignant progression occur. Here, we review the current literature on the pathobiology and genetics of nevi in the hope that additional studies of nevi promise to inform our understanding of the transition from benign neoplasm to malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Ryung Roh
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Dermatology, Cutaneous Biology Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Philip Eliades
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sameer Gupta
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hensin Tsao
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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20
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Latchana N, Regan K, Howard JH, Aldrink JH, Ranalli MA, Peters SB, Zhang X, Gru A, Payne PRO, Suarez-Kelly LP, Carson WE. Global microRNA profiling for diagnostic appraisal of melanocytic Spitz tumors. J Surg Res 2016; 205:350-358. [PMID: 27664883 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2016.06.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/26/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melanoma skin cancer remains the leading cause of skin cancer-related deaths. Spitz lesions represent a subset of melanocytic skin lesions characterized by epithelioid or spindled melanocytes organized in nests. These lesions occupy a spectrum ranging from benign Spitz and atypical Spitz lesions all the way to malignant Spitz tumors. Appropriate management is reliant on accurate diagnostic classification, yet this effort remains challenging using current light microscopic techniques. The discovery of novel biomarkers such as microRNAs (miR) may ultimately be a useful diagnostic adjunct for the evaluation of Spitz lesions. miR expression profiles have been suggested for non-Spitz melanomas but have yet to be ascribed to Spitz lesions. We hypothesized that distinct miR expression profiles would be associated with different lesions along the Spitz spectrum. MATERIALS AND METHODS RNAs extracted from paraffin-embedded, formalin-fixed tissues of 11 resected skin lesions including benign nevi (n = 2), benign Spitz lesions (n = 3), atypical Spitz lesions (n = 3), and malignant Spitz tumors (n = 3) were analyzed by the NanoString platform for simultaneous evaluation of over 800 miRs in each patient sample. RESULTS Benign Spitz lesions had increased expression of miR-21-5p and miR-363-3p compared with those of benign nevi. Malignant Spitz lesions exhibited overexpression of miR-21-5p, miR-155-5p, and miR-1283 relative to both benign nevi and benign Spitz tumors. Notably, atypical Spitz tumors had increased expression of miR-451a and decreased expression of miR-155-5p expression relative to malignant Spitz lesions. Conversely, atypical Spitz lesions had increased expression of miR-21-5p, miR-34a-5p, miR-451a, miR-1283, and miR-1260a relative to benign Spitz tumors. CONCLUSIONS Overall, distinct miR profiles are suggested among Spitz lesions of varying malignant potential with some similarities to non-Spitz melanoma tumors. This work demonstrates the feasibility of this analytic method and forms the basis for further validation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Latchana
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Kelly Regan
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - J Harrison Howard
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Jennifer H Aldrink
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Mark A Ranalli
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Sara B Peters
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Alejandro Gru
- Department of Pathology, University of Virgina, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Philip R O Payne
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Lorena P Suarez-Kelly
- Department of Molecular Virology, Immunology and Medical Genetics, The Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - William E Carson
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH.,Department of Molecular Virology, Immunology and Medical Genetics, The Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
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21
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Stefanaki C, Stefanaki K, Chardalias L, Soura E, Stratigos A. Differential diagnosis of Spitzoid melanocytic neoplasms. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2016; 30:1269-77. [DOI: 10.1111/jdv.13665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Stefanaki
- 1st Dermatology Clinic; ‘Andreas Sygros’ University Skin Hospital; Athens Greece
| | - K. Stefanaki
- Pathology Department; Agia Sofia Children's Hospital; Athens Greece
| | - L. Chardalias
- 1st Dermatology Clinic; ‘Andreas Sygros’ University Skin Hospital; Athens Greece
- Medical student; Kapodistriako University of Athens; Greece
| | - E. Soura
- 1st Dermatology Clinic; ‘Andreas Sygros’ University Skin Hospital; Athens Greece
| | - A. Stratigos
- 1st Dermatology Clinic; ‘Andreas Sygros’ University Skin Hospital; Athens Greece
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22
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Tricoli JV, Blair DG, Anders CK, Bleyer WA, Boardman LA, Khan J, Kummar S, Hayes-Lattin B, Hunger SP, Merchant M, Seibel NL, Thurin M, Willman CL. Biologic and clinical characteristics of adolescent and young adult cancers: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, and sarcoma. Cancer 2016; 122:1017-28. [PMID: 26849082 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.29871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Revised: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with cancer have not attained the same improvements in overall survival as either younger children or older adults. One possible reason for this disparity may be that the AYA cancers exhibit unique biologic characteristics, resulting in differences in clinical and treatment resistance behaviors. This report from the biologic component of the jointly sponsored National Cancer Institute and LiveStrong Foundation workshop entitled "Next Steps in Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology" summarizes the current status of biologic and translational research progress for 5 AYA cancers; colorectal cancer breast cancer, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, melanoma, and sarcoma. Conclusions from this meeting included the need for basic biologic, genomic, and model development for AYA cancers as well as translational research studies to elucidate any fundamental differences between pediatric, AYA, and adult cancers. The biologic questions for future research are whether there are mutational or signaling pathway differences (for example, between adult and AYA colorectal cancer) that can be clinically exploited to develop novel therapies for treating AYA cancers and to develop companion diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- James V Tricoli
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Donald G Blair
- Division of Cancer Biology, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Carey K Anders
- Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - W Archie Bleyer
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Lisa A Boardman
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Javed Khan
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Shivaani Kummar
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Brandon Hayes-Lattin
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Stephen P Hunger
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Melinda Merchant
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Nita L Seibel
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Magdalena Thurin
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, Maryland
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23
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Massi D, De Giorgi V, Mandalà M. The complex management of atypical Spitz tumours. Pathology 2016; 48:132-41. [PMID: 27020385 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2015.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2015] [Revised: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, advances in molecular genetic characterisation have revealed that atypical Spitz tumours (ASTs) are basically heterogeneous diseases, although the clinical relevance of these findings is yet to be determined. Evidence of molecularly-defined diverse groups of lesions continues to accumulate; however, conflicting, confusing, and overlapping terminology has fostered ambiguity and lack of clarity in the field in general. The lack of fundamental diagnostic (morphological) unambiguous classification framework results in a number of challenges in the interpretation of the molecular genetic data. In this review, we discuss the main difficulties for pathologists and clinicians in the complex management of ASTs, with particular emphasis on the different genetic and biological features of recently-described entities, and offer our view of what could be medically reasonable to guide a rational approach in light of current data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Massi
- Division of Pathological Anatomy, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Italy.
| | | | - Mario Mandalà
- Unit of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology and Hematology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo, Italy
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24
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Harms KL, Lowe L, Fullen DR, Harms PW. Atypical Spitz Tumors: A Diagnostic Challenge. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2016; 139:1263-70. [PMID: 26414472 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2015-0207-ra] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Spitzoid melanocytic lesions encompass a spectrum from benign Spitz nevi to malignant spitzoid melanomas. Spitzoid melanocytic neoplasms have significant morphologic and molecular differences from conventional melanocytic lesions, and prediction of biologic behavior and metastatic risk may be difficult. Most challenging is the atypical Spitz tumor, a borderline spitzoid melanocytic lesion of uncertain malignant potential that has overlapping histologic features with conventional Spitz nevus and spitzoid melanoma. Atypical Spitz tumors involve the sentinel lymph nodes at a greater frequency than conventional melanoma and frequently harbor chromosomal copy number changes, yet most cases follow an indolent course. Herein we review the clinical, microscopic, and molecular features of atypical Spitz tumors, including recent molecular advances, including the potential prognostic significance of chromosomal abnormalities, such as homozygous CDKN2A loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly L Harms
- From the Department of Dermatology (Drs K. L. Harms, Lowe, Fullen, and P. W. Harms), the Comprehensive Cancer Center (Dr K. L. Harms), and the Department of Dermatology and Pathology (Drs Lowe, Fullen, and P. W. Harms), University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
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25
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Jahn SW, Kashofer K, Halbwedl I, Winter G, El-Shabrawi-Caelen L, Mentzel T, Hoefler G, Liegl-Atzwanger B. Mutational dichotomy in desmoplastic malignant melanoma corroborated by multigene panel analysis. Mod Pathol 2015; 28:895-903. [PMID: 25769001 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.2015.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2014] [Revised: 12/29/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Desmoplastic malignant melanoma is a distinct melanoma entity histologically subtyped into mixed and pure forms due to significantly reduced lymph node metastases in the pure form. Recent reports investigating common actionable driver mutations have demonstrated a lack of BRAF, NRAS, and KIT mutation in pure desmoplastic melanoma. In search for alternative driver mutations next generation amplicon sequencing for hotspot mutations in 50 genes cardinal to tumorigenesis was performed and in addition the RET G691S polymorphism was investigated. Data from 21 desmoplastic melanomas (12 pure and 9 mixed) were retrieved. Pure desmoplastic melanomas were either devoid of mutations (50%) or displayed mutations in tumor suppressor genes (TP53, CDKN2A, and SMAD4) singularly or in combination with the exception of a PIK3CA double-mutation lacking established biological relevance. Mixed desmoplastic melanomas on the contrary were frequently mutated (89%), and 67% exhibited activating mutations similar to common-type cutaneous malignant melanomas (BRAF, NRAS, FGFR2, and ERBB2). Separate analysis of morphologically heterogeneous tumor areas in four mixed desmoplastic malignant melanomas displayed no difference in mutation status and RET G691 status. GNAQ and GNA11, two oncogenes in BRAF and NRAS wild-type uveal melanomas, were not mutated in our cohort. The RET G691S polymorphism was found in 25% of pure and 38% of mixed desmoplastic melanomas. Apart from RET G691S our findings demonstrate absence of activating driver mutations in pure desmoplastic melanoma beyond previously investigated oncogenes (BRAF, NRAS, and KIT). The findings underline the therapeutic dichotomy of mixed versus pure desmoplastic melanoma with regard to activating mutations primarily of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan W Jahn
- Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Karl Kashofer
- Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Iris Halbwedl
- Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Gerlinde Winter
- Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | | | | | - Gerald Hoefler
- Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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26
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Abstract
Spitzoid melanomas (SM) and atypical Spitz tumors (AST) are rare pediatric neoplasms. We performed a retrospective, single-institution review and report our institutional experience. We identified 10 patients (median age: 12.5 years). A sentinel node biopsy (SNB) was performed in 8/10 (80%) patients, and interestingly 7/8 (87.5%) were found to be positive for malignant cells. A complete regional lymphadenectomy was performed in all SNB-positive patients, but only 2/8 (25%) were found to have additional lymph node spread. Adjuvant therapy was administered in 5/8 SLNB-positive and 2/2 (100%) regional LN-positive cases. All patients had excellent long-term outcomes (100% survival). This report highlights the excellent outcomes associated with SNB + pediatric SM and AST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Batra
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Riley Hospital for Children, 705 Riley Hospital Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.,Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Riley Hospital for Children, 705 Riley Hospital Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.,Hematopoiesis, Hematologic Malignancies & Immunology, Indiana University Melvin & Bren Simon Cancer Center, 535 Barnhill Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Riley Hospital for Children, 705 Riley Hospital Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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27
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Hosler GA, Davoli T, Mender I, Litzner B, Choi J, Kapur P, Shay JW, Wang RC. A primary melanoma and its asynchronous metastasis highlight the role of BRAF, CDKN2A, and TERT. J Cutan Pathol 2015; 42:108-17. [PMID: 25407517 PMCID: PMC4470704 DOI: 10.1111/cup.12444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Revised: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alterations in pathways including BRAF, CDKN2A, and TERT contribute to the development of melanoma, but the sequence in which the genetic alterations occur and their prognostic significance remains unclear. To clarify the role of these pathways, we analyzed a primary melanoma and its metastasis. METHODS Immunohistochemistry for BRAF-V600E, Sanger sequencing of BRAF and the TERT promoter, fluorescence in-situ hybridization, and telomere analyses were performed on a primary melanoma and its asynchronous cerebellar metastasis. Using the log-rank test and Cox-proportional model, the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) cohort of melanomas was analyzed for the effect of BRAF mutation and CDKN2A loss on survival. RESULTS The primary melanoma expressed mutant BRAF-V600E and possessed a homozygous deletion of CDKN2A. In addition to these early defects, the metastatic lesion also possessed evidence of aneuploidy and an activating mutation of the TERT promoter. In the TCGA melanoma cohort, there was a non-significant trend toward poor prognosis in early stage cutaneous melanoma patients with concomitant BRAF mutation and CDKN2A loss. CONCLUSION BRAF mutation and CDKN2A loss occurred early and TERT promoter mutation later in a case of lethal metastatic melanoma. The effects of these pathways on survival warrant further investigation in early stage cutaneous melanoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory A. Hosler
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
- ProPath, Dallas, TX
- Department of Pathology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Teresa Davoli
- Division of Genetics, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Ilgen Mender
- Department of Cell Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Brandon Litzner
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Jaehyuk Choi
- Department of Dermatology, Yale Medical School, New Haven, CT
| | - Payal Kapur
- Department of Pathology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Jerry W. Shay
- Department of Cell Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Richard C. Wang
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
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28
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Malkan AD, Sandoval JA. Controversial tumors in pediatric surgical oncology. Curr Probl Surg 2014; 51:478-520. [PMID: 25524425 DOI: 10.1067/j.cpsurg.2014.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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29
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Dubruc E, Balme B, Dijoud F, Disant F, Thomas L, Wang Q, Pissaloux D, de la Fouchardiere A. Mutated and amplifiedNRASin a subset of cutaneous melanocytic lesions with dermal spitzoid morphology: report of two pediatric cases located on the ear. J Cutan Pathol 2014; 41:866-72. [DOI: 10.1111/cup.12389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Revised: 07/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Estelle Dubruc
- Département de Biopathologie; Centre Léon Bérard; Lyon France
| | - Brigitte Balme
- Département de Pathologie; hôpital Lyon Sud; Lyon France
| | | | | | - Luc Thomas
- Service de Dermatologie Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud; Pierre Bénite France
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1; Lyon France
| | - Qing Wang
- Département de Biopathologie; Centre Léon Bérard; Lyon France
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30
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McCormack CJ, Conyers RK, Scolyer RA, Kirkwood J, Speakman D, Wong N, Kelly JW, Henderson MA. Atypical Spitzoid neoplasms: a review of potential markers of biological behavior including sentinel node biopsy. Melanoma Res 2014; 24:437-47. [PMID: 24892957 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Atypical cutaneous melanocytic lesions, including those with Spitzoid features, can be difficult to categorize as benign or malignant. This can lead to suboptimal management, with potential adverse patient outcomes. Recent studies have enhanced knowledge of the molecular and genetic biology of these lesions and, combined with clinicopathological findings, is further defining their biological spectrum, classification, and behavior. Sentinel node biopsy provides important prognostic information in patients with cutaneous melanoma, but its role in the management of melanocytic lesions of uncertain malignant potential (MELTUMP) is controversial. This paper examines the role of molecular testing and sentinel node biopsy in MELTUMPs, particularly atypical Spitzoid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J McCormack
- aPeter Macallum Cancer Institute, East Melbourne bVictorian Melanoma Service, Alfred Hospital, Prahran cDepartment of Paediatrics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville dThe Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville, Victoria eMelanoma Institute Australia , Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia fDepartment of Medicine, Melanoma and Skin Cancer Program, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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31
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Clinical and pathologic findings of Spitz nevi and atypical Spitz tumors with ALK fusions. Am J Surg Pathol 2014; 38:925-33. [PMID: 24698967 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000000187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Spitz tumors represent a group of melanocytic neoplasms that typically affect young individuals. Microscopically, the lesions are composed of cytologically distinct spindle and epithelioid melanocytes, with a range in the architectural display or the cells, their nuclear features, and secondary epidermal or stromal changes. Recently, kinase fusions have been documented in a subset of Spitz tumors, but there is limited information on the clinical and pathologic features associated with those lesions. Here, we report a series of 17 patients (9 male, 8 female) with spitzoid neoplasms showing ALK fusions (5 Spitz nevi and 12 atypical Spitz tumors). The patients' ages ranged from 2 years to 35 years (mean=17 y; median=16 y). Most lesions were located on the lower extremities and presented clinically as polypoid nodules. All tumors were compound melanocytic proliferations with a predominant intradermal growth. Tumor thickness ranged from 1.1 to 6 mm (mean=2.9 mm; median=2.5 mm). The most characteristic histopathologic feature of the tumors (seen in all but 2 lesions) was a plexiform dermal growth of intersecting fascicles of fusiform melanocytes. All but 2 tumors were amelanotic. All tumors were strongly immunoreactive for ALK. The ALK rearrangements were confirmed in all cases by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and the fusion partner was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction as TPM3 (tropomyosin 3) in 11 cases and DCTN1 (dynactin 1) in 6 cases. None of the 8 tumors that were analyzed by FISH for copy number changes of 6p, 6q, 9p, or 11q met criteria for melanoma. Two patients underwent a sentinel lymph node biopsy, and in both cases melanocyte nests were found in the subcapsular sinus of the node. Array comparative genomic hybridization of these 2 tumors revealed no chromosomal gains or losses. In conclusion, our study revealed that Spitz nevi/tumors with ALK rearrangement show a characteristic plexiform morphology and that ALK immunohistochemistry and FISH enable the accurate identification of this morphologic and genetic distinct subset of spitzoid neoplasms.
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Abbas O, Miller DD, Bhawan J. Cutaneous malignant melanoma: update on diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Am J Dermatopathol 2014; 36:363-79. [PMID: 24803061 DOI: 10.1097/dad.0b013e31828a2ec5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of cutaneous malignant melanoma has rapidly increased in recent years in all parts of the world, and melanoma is a leading cause of cancer death. As even relatively small melanomas may have metastatic potential, accurate assessment of progression is critical. Although diagnosis of cutaneous malignant melanoma is usually based on histopathologic criteria, these criteria may at times be inadequate in differentiating melanoma from certain types of benign nevi. As for prognosis, tumor (Breslow) thickness, mitotic rate, and ulceration have been considered the most important prognostic indicators among histopathologic criteria. However, there are cases of thin primary melanomas that have ultimately developed metastases despite complete excision. Given this, an accurate assessment of melanoma progression is critical, and development of molecular biomarkers that identify high-risk melanoma in its early phase is urgently needed. Large-scale genomic profiling has identified considerable heterogeneity in melanoma and suggests subgrouping of tumors by patterns of gene expression and mutation will ultimately be essential to accurate staging. This subgrouping in turn may allow for more targeted therapy. In this review, we aim to provide an update on the most promising new biomarkers that may help in the identification and prognostication of melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ossama Abbas
- *Associate Professor of Clinical Dermatology, Dermatology Department, American University of Beirut-Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon; and †Assistant Professor of Dermatology (D.D.M.), Professor of Dermatology and Pathology (J.B.), Dermatopathology Section, Department of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
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Horst BA, Terrano D, Fang Y, Silvers DN, Busam KJ. 9p21 gene locus in Spitz nevi of older individuals: absence of cytogenetic and immunohistochemical findings associated with malignancy. Hum Pathol 2013; 44:2822-8. [PMID: 24134932 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2013.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2013] [Revised: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The diagnosis of Spitz nevus in an elderly individual is often met with skepticism because the lesion can be difficult to distinguish from melanoma and because the probability of a malignant melanoma is higher in older patients. Recently, increased sensitivity for detection of malignant spitzoid neoplasms using 9p21 fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) has been described. In this study, we address the question of whether histopathologically typical Spitz nevi occurring in patients 50 years and older show any abnormalities regarding the 9p21 CDKN2A tumor suppressor gene locus. p16 immunohistochemistry (IHC), as well as dual-color FISH for assessment of diploid or hypodiploid status at 9p21, was performed in 25 classic Spitz nevi from patients 50 years and older and was compared with findings in a younger control population. All cases of typical Spitz nevi occurring in older patients retained p16 expression by immunohistochemistry and showed normal, diploid 9p21 FISH signals. Heterozygous loss of 9p21 by FISH was noted in a control case of a 9-year-old girl and is of unknown significance. These findings indicate that p16 expression by immunohistochemistry in classic Spitz nevi correlates well with absence of malignancy-associated cytogenetic abnormalities at 9p21 by FISH independent of the patient's age. Assessment of p16 expression by standard immunohistochemistry may therefore be reassuring in routine clinical practice when the patient is of advanced age, and can be helpful as a screening tool to select IHC-negative cases for extended FISH analysis targeting the 9p21 gene locus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basil A Horst
- Department of Dermatology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, NY 10032, USA; Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, NY 10032, USA.
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The surgical management of Spitz naevi and atypical spitzoid neoplasms: A review of the literature. Surgeon 2013; 11:205-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.surge.2013.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2012] [Revised: 12/17/2012] [Accepted: 01/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Neuropilin-2 as a useful marker in the differentiation between Spitzoid malignant melanoma and Spitz nevus. J Am Acad Dermatol 2013; 68:129-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2012.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2012] [Revised: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 07/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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[Melanoma in children: diagnosis and treatment specificities]. Bull Cancer 2012; 99:881-8. [PMID: 22961389 DOI: 10.1684/bdc.2012.1628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Skin melanoma is an extremely rare disease at pediatric age and its incidence increases with age. Links with predisposition syndrome exists (giant congenital naevus, xeroderma pigmentosum). Diagnosis is often difficult and distinction between benign or malignant lesion is sometime impossible (Spitzoid naevus, melanocytic neoplasms) leading to the diagnosis of "melanocytic tumor of uncertain malignant potential" (MELTUMP). Atypical features (amelanotic or raised lesions, atypical histotype) are frequent leading to delay in treatment. Diagnosis and treatment require expertise for pathologists and dermatologists pediatricians. Invasive melanomas are of poor prognosis despite recent progress in adult treatment. Early and rigorous treatment of suspect skin lesions is necessary.
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Paradela S, Fonseca E, Pita-Fernández S, Prieto V. Spitzoid and non-spitzoid melanoma in children. A prognostic comparative study. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2012; 27:1214-21. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2012.04686.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Abstract
Although melanoma represents only 10% of all skin cancer diagnoses, it accounts for at least 65% of all skin cancer-related deaths. The number of new cutaneous melanoma cases projected during 2010 was 68,000-a 23% increase from the 2004 prediction of 55,100 cases. In 2015, the lifetime risk of developing melanoma is estimated to increase to 1 in 50. As the incidence of melanoma continues to rise, now more than ever, clinicians and histopathologists must have familiarity with the various clinical and pathologic features of cutaneous melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clay J Cockerell
- Department of Dermatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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Hill SJ, Delman KA. Pediatric melanomas and the atypical spitzoid melanocytic neoplasms. Am J Surg 2012; 203:761-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2011.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2010] [Revised: 04/11/2011] [Accepted: 04/11/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Imaging mass spectrometry--a new and promising method to differentiate Spitz nevi from Spitzoid malignant melanomas. Am J Dermatopathol 2012; 34:82-90. [PMID: 22197864 DOI: 10.1097/dad.0b013e31823df1e2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Differentiating Spitz nevus (SN) from Spitzoid malignant melanoma (SMM) is one the most difficult problems in dermatopathology. SPECIFIC AIM To identify differences on proteomic level between SN and SMM. METHODS We performed Imaging Mass Spectrometry analysis on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue samples to identify differences on proteomic level between SN and SMM. The diagnosis of SN and SMM was based on histopathologic criteria, clinical features, and follow-up data, which confirmed that none of the lesions diagnosed as SN recurred or metastasized. The melanocytic component (tumor) and tumor microenvironment (dermis) from 114 cases of SN and SMM from the Yale Spitzoid Neoplasm Repository were analyzed. After obtaining mass spectra from each sample, classification models were built using a training set of biopsies from 26 SN and 25 SMM separately for tumor and for dermis. The classification algorithms developed on the training data set were validated on another set of 30 samples from SN and 33 from SMM. RESULTS We found proteomic differences between the melanocytic components of SN and SMM and identified 5 peptides that were differentially expressed in the 2 groups. From these data, 29 of 30 SN and 26 of 29 SMM were recognized correctly based on tumor analysis in the validation set. This method correctly classified SN with 97% sensitivity and 90% specificity in the validation cohort. CONCLUSIONS Imaging Mass Spectrometry analysis can reliably differentiate SN from SMM in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue based on proteomic differences.
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Bär M, Tschandl P, Kittler H. Differentiation of pigmented Spitz nevi and Reed nevi by integration of dermatopathologic and dermatoscopic findings. Dermatol Pract Concept 2012. [PMID: 24765545 DOI: 10.5826/dpc.0201a03.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unclear whether pigmented Spitz and Reed nevi are distinct morphologic entities or part of the spectrum of Spitz nevi. METHODS In a retrospective observational study we analyzed dermatopathologic slides of 22 cases with clinical and dermatoscopic features indicative of pigmented Spitz or Reed nevus in a blinded fashion according to predefined criteria and subsequently correlated dermatopathologic with clinical and dermatoscopic findings. RESULTS We differentiated pigmented Spitz and Reed nevus dermatopathologically by their capacity of melanin production and a vertical versus horizontal growth pattern. Based on histopathology 20 nevi (91%) could be reliably diagnosed as Reed nevus (68%, n=15) or as pigmented Spitz nevus (23%, n=5). In two cases (9%, n=2) it was not possible to make a clear distinction from a dermatopathologic point of view. Dermatopathologic-dermatoscopic correlation showed that Reed nevi were characterized by a dermatoscopic pattern of peripheral radial lines or pseudopods (fascicular growth pattern), whereas pigmented Spitz nevi were typified by a pattern consisting of clods (nested growth pattern). "Spitz cells" (large epithelioid melanocytes) were more commonly found in Spitz nevi (100%, n = 5) but were also present in Reed nevi (n=6, 40%). Spindle cells were found in both types of nevi. CONCLUSIONS Pigmented Spitz and Reed nevi can be reliably distinguished based on their dermatopathologic and dermatoscopic patterns. The specific dermatopathologic patterns of pigmented Spitz and Reed nevi correspond well to their dermatoscopic patterns. The presence of "Spitz cells" or spindle cells should not be regarded as the decisive criterion to differentiate between these two entities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Bär
- Department of Pathology, Görlitz Municipal Hospital, Görlitz, Germany
| | - Philipp Tschandl
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Harald Kittler
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Navid F. Genetic alterations in childhood melanoma. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2012:589-592. [PMID: 24451801 DOI: 10.14694/edbook_am.2012.32.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is rare in children. However, the clinical features of the disease in this population have been well-documented through single-institution experiences and population-based analyses. Still, our understanding of the etiologic factors in children remains unclear and diagnosis of melanoma remains challenging in certain cases. This article reviews emerging evidence indicating that molecular characterization of these lesions in children may be of diagnostic and therapeutic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Navid
- From the Division of Solid Malignancies, Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
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Luo S, Sepehr A, Tsao H. Spitz nevi and other Spitzoid lesions part I. Background and diagnoses. J Am Acad Dermatol 2011; 65:1073-84. [PMID: 22082838 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2011.04.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2010] [Revised: 04/21/2011] [Accepted: 04/23/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Spitz nevi are melanocytic proliferations that are characterized by spindled and/or epithelioid nevomelanocytes. First interpreted as juvenile melanoma, these lesions were later characterized as benign and were observed to affect all age groups. Today, contrasting opinions persist regarding the fundamental benignancy versus malignancy within the spectrum of Spitz tumors. Beyond clinical outcome, this controversy has also been fueled by complex and sometimes convoluted classification schemes based on pathologic characteristics. More recently, immunophenotypic and molecular analyses have begun to clarify the etiologic nature of these tumors. Recent evidence suggests that histopathologic features that suggest more aggressiveness in Spitz tumors relate to mitoses and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Luo
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine and Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Atypical Spitzoid melanocytic tumors: a morphological, mutational, and FISH analysis. J Am Acad Dermatol 2011; 64:919-35. [PMID: 21496703 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2010.05.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2010] [Revised: 04/26/2010] [Accepted: 05/13/2010] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identification of the clinical behavior of atypical Spitzoid tumors with conflicting histopathologic features remains controversial. OBJECTIVE We sought to assess whether molecular findings may be helpful in the diagnostic and prognostic assessment of atypical Spitzoid tumors. METHODS A total of 38 controversial, atypical Spitzoid lesions (≥ 1 mm in thickness) were analyzed for clinicopathological features, chromosomal alterations by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis (RREB1/MYB/CCND1/CEP6), BRAF(V600E) mutation by allele-specific real-time polymerase chain reaction confirmed by sequencing, and H-RAS gene mutation by direct sequencing. RESULTS Atypical Spitzoid lesions developed in 21 female and 17 male patients (mean age 22 years). Nine patients underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy and a sentinel lymph node micrometastasis was detected in 4 of these 9 cases. Four additional patients, who did not receive a sentinel lymph node biopsy, experienced bulky lymph node metastases and one experienced visceral metastases and death. Lesions from patients with lymph node involvement showed more deep mitoses (P < .01), less inflammation (P = .05), and more plasma cells (P = .04). FISH analysis demonstrated the presence of chromosomal alterations in 6 of 25 cases. Correlation with follow-up data showed that the only case with fatal outcome showed multiple chromosomal alterations by FISH analysis. BRAF(V600E) mutation was detected in 12 of 16 cases (75%) and H-RAS mutation on exon 3 was found in 3 of 11 cases (27%). LIMITATIONS Our results require validation in a larger series with longer follow-up information. CONCLUSIONS FISH assay may be of help in the prognostic evaluation of atypical Spitzoid tumors. Diagnostic significance of BRAF(V600E) and H-RAS mutations in this setting remains unclear.
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Abstract
Despite recent advances, the biology underlying nevogenesis remains unclear. Activating mutations in NRAS, HRAS, BRAF, and GNAQ have been identified in benign nevi. Their presence roughly correlates with congenital, Spitz, acquired, and blue nevi, respectively. These mutations are likely to play a critical role in driving nevogenesis. While each mutation is able to activate the MAP kinase pathway, they also interact with a host of different proteins in other pathways. The different melanocytic developmental pathways activated by each mutation cause the cells to migrate, proliferate, and differentiate to different extents within the skin. This causes each mutation to give rise to a characteristic growth pattern. The exact location and differentiation state of the cell of origin for benign moles remains to be discovered. Further research is necessary to fully understand nevus development given that most of the same developmental pathways are also present in melanoma.
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Gantner S, Wiesner T, Cerroni L, Lurkin I, Zwarthoff EC, Landthaler M, Hafner C. Absence of BRAF and HRAS mutations in eruptive Spitz naevi. Br J Dermatol 2011; 164:873-7. [PMID: 21418173 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2011.10210.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eruptive Spitz naevi have been reported rarely in the literature. In solitary Spitz naevi, BRAF and HRAS mutations, as well as increased copy numbers of chromosome 11p have been identified. OBJECTIVES To investigate the genetic changes underlying eruptive Spitz naevi. METHODS We report on a 16-year-old boy who developed multiple disseminated eruptive Spitz naevi within a few months. We analysed BRAF, HRAS, KRAS and NRAS genes in 39 naevi from this patient for hotspot mutations. Furthermore, comparative genomic hybridization analysis was performed in three lesions. RESULTS None of the Spitz naevi displayed a mutation in the analysed genes, and no chromosomal imbalances were observed. Conclusions Our results indicate that the typical genetic alterations described in solitary Spitz naevi appear to be absent in eruptive Spitz naevi. Yet unknown alternative genetic alterations must account for this rare syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gantner
- Department of Dermatology, University of Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss-Allee 11, 93042 Regensburg, Germany
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Tom WL, Hsu JW, Eichenfield LF, Friedlander SF. Pediatric “STUMP” lesions: Evaluation and management of difficult atypical Spitzoid lesions in children. J Am Acad Dermatol 2011; 64:559-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2009.12.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2009] [Revised: 11/25/2009] [Accepted: 12/31/2009] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Statistical Analysis of the Concordance of Immunohistochemical Stains With the Final Diagnosis in Spitzoid Neoplasms. Am J Dermatopathol 2011; 33:72-7. [DOI: 10.1097/dad.0b013e3181da3841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Scolyer RA, Murali R, McCarthy SW, Thompson JF. Histologically ambiguous ("borderline") primary cutaneous melanocytic tumors: approaches to patient management including the roles of molecular testing and sentinel lymph node biopsy. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2011; 134:1770-7. [PMID: 21128774 DOI: 10.5858/2009-0612-rar.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
It is well recognized that the pathologic diagnosis of melanocytic tumors can sometimes be difficult. For some atypical melanocytic tumors that do not display clear-cut features of malignancy, it may be difficult or impossible to exclude a diagnosis of melanoma; this includes those showing some resemblance to Spitz nevi, blue nevi, deep penetrating nevi, and possible nevoid melanomas. When there is uncertainty about whether a primary melanocytic tumor is a nevus or a melanoma, we recommend that a second opinion be sought from one or more experienced colleagues. If diagnostic uncertainty persists, the evidence for or against the various differential diagnostic considerations should be presented in the pathology report and a "most likely" or "favored" diagnosis given. Molecular testing of the primary tumor by using techniques such as comparative genomic hybridization or fluorescence in situ hybridization may assist in establishing a diagnosis of melanoma if multiple chromosomal aberrations are identified. However, these tests require further independent validation and are not widely available at present. Complete excision of the lesion is probably mandatory, but plans for further management should be formulated on a case-by-case basis. While the safest course of action will usually be to manage the tumor as if it were a melanoma (taking into account the tumor's thickness and other prognostic variables), this may not always be appropriate, particularly if it is located in a cosmetically sensitive site such as the face. In some cases, it may be appropriate for the surgical oncologist to convey the diagnostic uncertainty to patients and to present them with management choices so that they can decide whether they wish to be managed aggressively (as for a melanoma) or conservatively. While a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be recommended on the basis of the primary tumor characteristics, the clinical significance of lymph node involvement for these tumors is not yet clear, and it may not have the same prognostic implications as nodal involvement from an unequivocal "conventional" melanoma.
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Kong Y, Kumar SM, Xu X. Molecular pathogenesis of sporadic melanoma and melanoma-initiating cells. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2011. [PMID: 21128770 DOI: 10.1043/2009-0418-rar.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in molecular genetics and cancer stem cell biology have shed some light on the molecular basis of melanomagenesis. In this review, we will focus on major genetic alterations in the melanoma, particularly pathways involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and tumor suppression. The potential role of melanoma-initiating cells during melanomagenesis and progression will also be discussed. Understanding pathogenesis of melanoma may uncover new diagnostic clues and therapeutic targets for this increasingly prevalent disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunyi Kong
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
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