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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 9, 2026

A 3D Organotypic Melanoma Spheroid Skin Model

A 3D Organotypic Melanoma Spheroid Skin Model

Published on: May 18, 2018

Melanoma simulating atypical fibroxanthoma.

Martin Sangüeza¹, Bernhard Zelger

¹Department of Pathology, Hospital Obrero Nro 1, Caja Nacional De Salud, La Paz, Bolivia.

The American Journal of Dermatopathology

|November 23, 2007

Summary

Rare melanomas can mimic atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX), leading to diagnostic delays. Correctly identifying these melanomas is crucial due to their serious prognosis compared to typical AFX.

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Area of Science:

Dermatopathology
Oncology

Background:

Melanoma diagnosis can be challenging due to diverse clinicopathological presentations.
Atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX) is a benign skin tumor typically cured by excision.

Observation:

This case series details four melanomas in three patients that mimicked AFX.
These unusual presentations led to significant diagnostic delays.

Findings:

The melanomas exhibited atypical features, complicating initial diagnosis.
Immunohistochemistry for common melanocytic markers (S100, MelanA/MART1, HMB45) was negative in these cases.

Implications:

Accurate and timely diagnosis of melanoma mimicking AFX is critical for patient prognosis.
Awareness of these rare presentations is essential for dermatopathologists and clinicians.