Extra c-myc oncogene copies in high risk cutaneous malignant melanoma and melanoma metastases.

Amplification and overexpression of the c-myc gene have been associated with neoplastic transformation in a plethora of malignant tumours. We applied interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with a locus-specific probe for the c-myc gene (8q24) in combination with a corresponding chromosome 8 alpha-satellite probe to evaluate genetic alterations in 8 primary melanomas and 33 advanced melanomas and compared it to 12 melanocytic nevi, 7 safety margins and 2 cases of normal skin. Additionally, in metaphase spreads of 7 melanoma cell lines a whole chromosome 8 paint probe was used.

Human malignant melanoma. A genetic disease?

Background: Human hereditary malignant melanoma, comprising 5% of all cases of malignant melanoma, occurs in association with other malignancies, predominantly in families with dysplastic nevus syndrome. Additionally, higher incidences of malignant melanoma have been reported in individuals with genetic disorders such as ataxia telangiectasia and xeroderma pigmentosum. The results and observations as reported in the literature on the involvement of oncogenes and chromosomal aberrations in the development of malignant melanoma are reviewed and compared with the authors' own experimental and clinical experience.