Examination of DNA-ploidy in melanocytic nevi cells using video-imaging cytometry

DNA content in 61 different types of melanocytic nevi was determined by video-imaging cytometry. The nevi were selected for this study because of melanoma risk associated with each nevus, which is 20-50% according to different authors. DNA ploidy was detected in paraffin embedded and fresh tissue material of each patient and the results were comparable. The sample preparation process and video-imaging method were presented in this study, 47 (77.0%) lesions exhibited diploid cell populations, 13 (21.3%) aneuploid and 1 (1.7%) tetraploid cell population. A significant correlation was observed between DNA ploidy measured in fresh tissue and retrospective material. The results indicate the presence of abnormal DNA content in some of the lesions.