Loss of beta2 microglobulin from the cell surface of cutaneous malignant and premalignant lesions

Biopsies from twenty-three patients with malignant skin lesions and from twenty-two patients with premalignant or benign skin lesions were stained for beta2 microglobulin by use of the immunoperoxidase technique. The results showed a significant loss of demonstrable surface beta2 microglobulin from the surface of malignant cells compared to benign, and a partial loss in the premalignant cases. This difference could prove to be a useful tool in the histological diagnosis of malignant skin lesions, and in assessing whether or not the lesion has been completely excised.