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Updated: Nov 6, 2025
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Comparative Lesions Analysis Through a Targeted Sequencing Approach
Published on: November 5, 2019
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A Mutational Survey of Acral Nevi
Keiran S M Smalley1,2, Jamie K Teer3, Y Ann Chen3
1Department of Tumor Biology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida.
JAMA Dermatology
|May 12, 2021
Summary
Acral nevi, often on sun-protected skin, show a high BRAF mutation rate similar to acquired nevi. This contrasts with acral melanoma, suggesting distinct mutational pathways for these skin lesions.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Genetics
Background:
- Acral nevi are common on the hands and feet.
- The mutational status of acral nevi and their link to acral melanoma are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mutational spectrum of acral nevi using targeted next-generation sequencing.
Main Methods:
- Fifty acral nevus specimens were analyzed using next-generation sequencing.
- BRAF V600E mutation status was assessed via immunohistochemistry in a subset of samples.
Main Results:
- BRAF mutations were highly prevalent (43/50), while NRAS mutations were less common (5/50).
- BRAF and NRAS mutations were mutually exclusive in the analyzed acral nevi.
Conclusions:
- Acral nevi exhibit a BRAF mutation rate comparable to nevi on sun-exposed skin.
- The mutational profile of acral nevi differs significantly from that of acral melanoma, indicating distinct oncogenic mechanisms.
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