Use of DAPI cytofluorometric analysis of cellular DNA content to differentiate Spitz nevus from malignant melanoma.

Abstract

Cellular DNA content was measured for the purpose of differentiating Spitz nevus from malignant melanoma using the cytofluorometric technique. DNA was stained by 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole, and measured by microfluorometer. Among 20 Spitz nevi examined, 18 of them showed a diploid DNA distribution histographic pattern similar to that of acquired pigmented nevi. The other two Spitz nevi had a few polyploid cells with the major population of cells containing diploid DNA content. In contrast, all malignant melanomas showed an aneuploid DNA distribution histographic pattern. The DNA index values of cells from Spitz nevi distributed in the similar range to that of acquired pigmented nevi and separated from those of malignant melanomas distributed in a much higher range. Our results suggest that cytofluorometric analysis of cellular DNA content reflects the biologic behavior more sensitively than do conventional clinical or histologic criteria, and that it serves as a useful aid for the differentiation of Spitz nevus from malignant melanoma.

• Authors: H I Chi, Y Ishibashi, A Shima, I Mihara, F Otsuka
• Journal: The Journal of investigative dermatology (J Invest Dermatol) Vol. 95 Issue 2 Pg. 154-7 (Aug 1990) ISSN: 0022-202X [Print] United States
• PMID: 2380576 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• DNA, Neoplasm
• Fluorescent Dyes
• Indoles
• DAPI

Topics

• Adult
• DNA, Neoplasm (analysis)
• Diagnosis, Differential
• Flow Cytometry (methods)
• Fluorescent Dyes
• Humans
• Indoles
• Melanoma (diagnosis, pathology)
• Middle Aged
• Nevus (diagnosis, pathology)
• Skin Neoplasms (diagnosis, pathology)