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Updated: Jul 11, 2026

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Cell-Free DNA Integrity Analysis in Urine Samples
Published on: January 5, 2017
5-S-cysteinyldopa in urine and tumors
1Department of Dermatology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
The Journal of Dermatology
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Urinary 5-S-CD measurements can help stage malignant melanoma and detect metastases. Tissue analysis of 5-S-CD can also aid in diagnosing malignant melanoma from other pigmentary tumors.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Oncology
- Clinical Diagnostics
Background:
- Malignant melanoma diagnosis and staging are critical for effective treatment.
- Biochemical markers are sought to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate urinary 5-S-CD as a biomarker for malignant melanoma staging and metastasis detection.
- To assess the diagnostic utility of tissue 5-S-CD levels in differentiating malignant melanoma from other pigmentary tumors.
Main Methods:
- High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to quantify urinary 5-S-CD levels in subjects with and without malignant melanoma.
- Tissue 5-S-CD concentrations were analyzed in primary malignant melanoma lesions and other pigmentary tumors.
Main Results:
- Urinary 5-S-CD levels were measured in 135 malignant melanoma patients and 204 non-melanoma subjects.
- Tissue 5-S-CD levels were significantly higher in malignant melanoma (80.6-821.4 ng/mg) compared to other pigmentary tumors (N.D.-55.0 ng/mg).
Conclusions:
- Periodic urinary 5-S-CD measurement is a useful biochemical marker for malignant melanoma staging, metastasis detection, and monitoring therapeutic efficacy.
- A tissue 5-S-CD threshold of 100 ng/mg can aid in diagnosing malignant melanoma versus other pigmentary tumors.
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