Ultrarapid staining for cutaneous melanoma: study and protocol.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Immunohistochemistry has revolutionized the use of frozen sections for the removal of melanoma.

OBJECTIVE:

Two studies were performed to address the best and fastest way to stain melanocytes in frozen tissue sections.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Fifty-six standing cones were taken from sun-damaged white skin and stained with combinations of anti-S-100, anti-HMB-45, anti-Melan-A, and azure B with appropriate controls.

RESULTS:

Anti-Melan-A was the best immunohistochemical stain. Azure B stains melanin granules metachromatically green and allows differentiation of melanocytes and melanophages. Ultrarapid staining worked as well as rapid staining.

CONCLUSION:

Dako's EnVision ultrarapid staining protocol and azure B counterstain represent a dramatic improvement and should be considered the easily obtainable histologic standard when excising cutaneous melanoma.

• Authors: Daniel A Davis, Kevin A Kurtz, Robert A Robinson
• Journal: Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.] (Dermatol Surg) Vol. 31 Issue 7 Pt 1 Pg. 753-6; discussion 756 (Jul 2005) ISSN: 1076-0512 [Print] United States
• PMID: 16029700 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article)

Topics

• Frozen Sections (methods)
• Humans
• Immunohistochemistry (methods)
• Melanoma (pathology)
• Skin Neoplasms (pathology)