[Fluorescence in-situ hybridization as a diagnostic tool for cutaneous melanoma].

OBJECTIVE

To explore the utility of fluorescence in situ hybridization as a diagnostic tool for cutaneous melanoma.

METHODS

Twenty cutaneous melanomas and 20 cutaneous nevi from pathology files were selected and analyzed by Vysis melanoma FISH probe kit targeting 3 loci on chromosome 6 (MYB, CEP6 and RREB1) and 1 locus on 11q (CCND1) and data were interpreted based on the Abbott criteria provided by the kit.

RESULTS

Informative FISH results were obtained in 16 melanomas and 18 nevi. Chromosomal aberrations were detected in 12 of the 16 melanomas and only 1 of 18 nevi.

CONCLUSION

FISH is a useful diagnostic tool and able to distinguish cutaneous nevus from melanoma with good sensitivity and specificity.