Expression of p15 in a spectrum of spitzoid melanocytic neoplasms

The markers auxiliary in differential diagnosis of early melanomas and benign nevi sharing some similar features potentially leading to misdiagnosis - a review of immunohistochemical studies

Although most melanocytic skin lesions are correctly diagnosed, numerous studies have shown interobserver disagreement. This review analyzes 20 molecules as immunohistochemical markers for distinguishing dysplastic and/or Spitz nevi from early melanomas (in situ, Clark level I or II and/or Breslow thickness at most 1 mm). The detected presence and/or level of tested molecules was significantly different in early melanomas than in dysplastic and Spitz nevi for six and seven potential markers, respectively. The most promising results were obtained for 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, cyclooxygenase-2 and PReferentially expressed Antigen in MElanoma whose levels were different in dysplastic and Spitz nevi compared to early melanomas.

Spitz Nevus: Review and Update

The Spitz nevus is an uncommon melanocytic nevus. These lesions classically appear in childhood as a red, dome-shaped papule. They appear rarely in adults and may be pigmented. The Spitz nevus can develop suddenly and grow rapidly, reaching a 1-cm diameter in 6 months or less. There are 3 classes of spitzoid neoplasms: typical Spitz nevus, atypical Spitz nevus, and spitzoid melanoma. The diagnosis should be cautiously differentiated, especially in children. Immunohistochemistry and molecular studies have been helpful in differentiating difficult cases; however, no set of criteria has been accepted to predict biological behavior of atypical Spitz nevi.