Ancillary Molecular Tests for the Diagnosis of Melanocytic Tumors

In the past 2 decades, several molecular methods have been developed as an adjunct for the assessment of melanocytic neoplasms. Some tests can assist in the diagnostic workup of neoplasms with ambiguous histopathologic findings. Others can optimize the selection of patients for targeted therapy. Some tests also aim to provide prognostic information. Scenarios when ordering these tests may be appropriate and helpful are discussed in this article as well as pitfalls in the interpretation of test results. Due to the inherent limitations in sensitivity and specificity of various tests, correlation with the histopathologic findings is paramount.