The importance of p16 and CD117 expression in melanocytic lesions

Abstract

Aim: The present study aims to determine the p16 and CD117 expression profiles of melanocytic lesions to investigate immune profiles that may facilitate differential diagnosis of melanoma from benign or potential precursor melanocytic lesions.Materials and Methods: Immunohistochemistry for p16 and CD117 was applied in a total of 81 cases with melanocytic lesions.Results: A significant loss of p16 expression was found in melanoma cases compared to benign and precursor melanocytic lesions (p<0.05). Moreover, a significant loss of p16 expression was also noted in cases of dysplastic nevus compared to those with intradermal nevus (p<0.01). While no CD117 expression was observed in intradermal nevi, high-level expression was seen in cases with Spitz nevus, blue nevus, invasive melanoma and dysplastic nevus (p<0.01).Conclusion: We believe using p16 and CD117 together may provide an important marker combination to aid in distinguishing melanoma from benign lesions and benign lesions from potential precursor melanocytic lesions.