Update on classification of melanocytic tumors and the role of immunohistochemistry and molecular techniques.

Abstract

The nine pathways to melanoma outlined in the most recent WHO classification of skin tumors attempt to capture the typical evolution of different subtypes of melanoma as governed by cell of origin, mutagenic factors and oncogenic drivers. This pathway-based classification will continue to be refined as we learn more about melanocytic tumor biology. I review the practical application of immunohistochemistry and molecular techniques in the diagnosis of melanocytic tumors in the context of this classification.