Oncogenic Lesions in Lentigines

Researchers establish a genetic link between keratoses and lentigines, but not all mutations lead to cancer.

Solar lentigines (SLs) and reticulated seborrheic keratoses (SKs) share similar pathological features, and their clinical appearance often overlaps. Recent identification of somatic mutations of the fibroblast growth factor receptor gene FGFR3 and the PIK3CA gene in SKs suggests that SLs may harbor similar oncogenic lesions. Investigators in Germany analyzed DNA from 30 SLs in 29 patients for common oncogenic mutations in FGFR3, PIK3CA, and BRAF, which is often mutated in melanocytic nevi and melanomas.

Five (17%) of the SLs had an activating FGFR3 mutation, and 2 of 28 analyzable SLs (7%) revealed the PIK3CA/E542K hot-spot mutation commonly found in SKs. No BRAF mutations were found.

Reviewing Author

Hensin Tsao, MD, PhD

Disclosures

Consultant / advisory board Lubax; WorldCare Clinical

EquityLubax

Grant / Research support NIH; Department of Defense; American Skin Association; Piramal

Editorial boardsBritish Journal of Dermatology; Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology; Journal of Investigative Dermatology

Leadership positions in professional societies American Academy of Dermatology (Chair, Skin Cancer and Melanoma Committee); American Board of Dermatology (Director)