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The architecture of nevoid malignant melanomas (NMMs) resembles that of benign nevi; however, the presence of mitotic figures and cytologic atypia and the absence of maturation can alert the pathologist to the possibility of malignancy. Recently, researchers explored the use of FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization) for detecting chromosomal abnormalities present in melanomas but not in nevi.
The authors of this retrospective study performed FISH in 10 NMMs and 10 mitotically active (having at least 1 mitotic figure) nevi. They targeted chromosomal loci known to usefully demonstrate differences in malignant and benign lesions: 6p25 (RREB1), 6q23 (MYB), CEP6, and 11q13 (Cyclin D1). FISH positivity was defined as a >55% gain in 6p25 relativ…