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Assessing Genetic Expression Profiles in Melanoma Diagnosis
Sancy A Leachman1, Stephanie Mengden Koon2, Veselina B Korcheva2
1Melanoma and Skin Cancer Program, Department of Dermatology, OHSU Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 SW Bond Avenue, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
Dermatologic Clinics
|September 10, 2017
Summary
Genetic expression profiling (GEP) assays help distinguish ambiguous melanocytic tumors. These tests measure gene mRNA levels, aiding diagnosis when traditional methods face challenges.
Area of Science:
- Dermatopathology
- Molecular Diagnostics
- Oncology
Background:
- Melanocytic tumors are typically classified as benign nevi or melanoma using histopathology.
- A subset of melanocytic tumors presents ambiguous features, posing diagnostic challenges for pathologists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the development and application of genetic expression profiling (GEP) assays for diagnosing challenging melanocytic tumors.
- To discuss the methodology, validation, and clinical suitability of GEP tests.
Main Methods:
- Genetic expression profiling (GEP) assays utilize reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) technology.
- GEP measures the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of specific genes.
Main Results:
- GEP assays offer a molecular approach to resolve diagnostic ambiguities in melanocytic tumors.
- The review covers the evolution of GEP technology and its challenges.
Conclusions:
- GEP assays represent a valuable tool in the diagnostic armamentarium for melanocytic lesions.
- The clinical utility of available GEP tests for patient management is considered.
