Actualities in the Morphology and Immunohistochemistry of Cutaneous and Ocular Melanoma: What Lies Ahead? A Single-Centre Study

Biomedicines. 2022 Oct 7;10(10):2500. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines10102500.

Abstract

Melanoma is the most aggressive melanocytic tumor whose incidence is continuously increasing worldwide.

Methods: We highlight the morphological, immunohistochemistry, and particularities of various melanoma types based on the cases diagnosed in our department from 2017 to 2021.

Results: We present 100 melanoma cases and one capsular nevus case. The most common type was nodular melanoma. The immunohistochemistry markers used were SRY-box transcription factor 10 (SOX10), S100 protein, human melanoma black 45 (HMB45), and melanoma antigen recognized by T cells 1 (Melan-A). Uveal melanoma and conjunctival melanoma represent particular tumors with independent prognostic factors. Uveal melanoma requires assessment of macrophages, microvascularisation, and mitoses. Sentinel lymph node metastases are essential targets that provide staging tools. Conjunctival melanoma and capsular nevi are diagnostic pitfalls.

Conclusion: Melanoma can appear in various forms, and sometimes the diagnosis might be unclear. Today, immunohistochemistry remains the most important tool in confirming the diagnosis and prognosis for this type of neoplasia.

Keywords: BRAF; immunohistochemistry; melanoma; metastases; sentinel lymph nodes.

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.