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.

Automated summary

This review analyzes the effectiveness of 20 molecules as immunohistochemical markers in distinguishing dysplastic and/or Spitz nevi from early melanomas. The results show significant differences in the presence and/or levels of six potential markers in early melanomas compared to dysplastic nevi, and seven potential markers in early melanomas compared to Spitz nevi. The most promising results were obtained for 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, cyclooxygenase-2, and PReferentially expressed Antigen in MElanoma.