Distinguishing between nodular and superficial spreading melanoma using specific microRNA alterations.

Abstract

8540 Background: Distinct molecular alterations in acral, mucosal and uveal melanoma subtypes have been recently reported and have prompted the development of tailored treatment approaches. Superficial spreading melanoma (SSM) and nodular melanoma (NM), the 2 most common types of cutaneous melanoma (70% and 20% respectively), are currently perceived as sequential phases of linear progression from radial to vertical growth. However, clinicopathological data from our group and others suggest that SSM and NM might be two biologically different entities. In this study, we used microRNA profiling to identify the signature that distinguishes SSM from NM. We further determined the association between decreased expression of SSM-specific microRNAs and loss of the corresponding genomic loci. Methods: miRCURY LNA microRNA Arrays were used to profile RNA isolated from 82 micro and macrodissected primary melanomas (26 SSM and 56 NM) and 9 congenital nevi. Differentially expressed microRNAs were identified using T tes...