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CD34 expression in desmoplastic melanoma.

Authors :
Hoang, Mai P.
Selim, M. Angelica
Bentley, Rex C.
Burchette, James L.
Shea, Christopher R.
Source :
Journal of Cutaneous Pathology. Nov2001, Vol. 28 Issue 10, p508-512. 5p. 6 Black and White Photographs, 2 Charts.
Publication Year :
2001

Abstract

Background: Primary and metastatic malignant melanoma can simulate various soft tissue tumors, including dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP). Expression of CD34, a marker characteristic of DFSP, as well as other spindle cell tumors, has not been previously documented in malignant melanoma. Methods: We present here an unusual case of metastatic malignant melanoma with a strong histologic resemblance to DFSP and also CD34 expression. Results: The patient, a 72-year-old man with a history of an invasive malignant melanoma of the skin of the right lower abdomen, presented with a right axillary mass. Histologic sections revealed intersecting fascicles of spindle cells with nuclear pleomorphism and numerous mitotic figures, diffusely infiltrating the adipose tissue in a pattern closely simulating that seen in DFSP. In other foci, epithelioid neoplastic cells with abundant cytoplasm, prominent nucleoli, nuclear pseudoinclusions, and focal cytoplasmic melanin pigment were seen. The neoplastic spindle cells were strongly labeled by two anti-CD34 monoclonal antibodies. Some of the spindle cells and the majority of the epithelioid neoplastic cells expressed S-100 protein and focally tyrosinase. The tumor cells were negative for HMB-45 and MART-1. Melanosomes were not identified by electron microscopy. Conclusion: This case demonstrates the potential of melanoma to simulate DFSP closely, on both morphologic and immunohistochemical grounds, and confirms the utility of employing a broad panel of immunohistochemical reagents in problematic cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subjects

Subjects :
*DISEASES in men

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
03036987
Volume :
28
Issue :
10
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Journal of Cutaneous Pathology
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
5560917
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1034/j.1600-0560.2001.281003.x