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Primary invasive signet-ring cell melanoma.
F Breier1, R Feldmann, C Fellenz
1Department of Dermatology, Vienna-Lainz, Austria. brf@khlder.magwien.gv.at
Journal of Cutaneous Pathology
|December 22, 1999
Summary
Signet-ring cell melanoma is a rare skin cancer variant. This case report details its unique histopathology and immunohistochemistry, aiding in diagnosis and differentiation from other tumors.
Area of Science:
- Dermatopathology
- Oncology
- Cytopathology
Background:
- Malignant melanoma presents with diverse histopathological variants.
- Signet-ring cell melanoma is a recently identified cytologic variant.
Observation:
- A case of primary signet-ring cell melanoma in a 72-year-old patient on the upper arm is presented.
- Histopathology revealed a melanocytic tumor with pleomorphic cells, intracellular vacuoles, peripheral nuclei, and mitotic figures.
- Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)-positive vacuoles were noted in some signet-ring cells.
Findings:
- Immunohistochemistry confirmed melanocytic differentiation with positive S-100, HMB-45, and vimentin.
- Tumor cells were negative for cytokeratins, epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA).
- The melanoma showed Clark Level IV invasion and a tumor thickness of 2.2 mm.
Implications:
- Accurate recognition of signet-ring cell melanoma is crucial for correct diagnosis.
- Distinguishing this variant from other signet-ring cell-containing tumors is essential for appropriate patient management.
- This case contributes to understanding the morphologic spectrum of malignant melanoma.