Update on fluorescence in situ hybridization in melanoma: state of the art.

Context: Recent advances in understanding the molecular basis of melanoma have resulted in development of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) protocols designed to detect genetic abnormalities discriminating melanoma from nevi. The most extensively studied is a 4-probe multicolor FISH probe panel targeting chromosomes 6 and 11. Validation studies showed promising sensitivity and specificity for distinguishing benign nevi and malignant melanoma by FISH. Recent studies show that a melanoma FISH assay has great potential for becoming an important diagnostic adjunct in classification of melanocytic lesions and in diagnosis of melanoma.

Objective: To present a comprehensive review of the science and practical aspects of FISH in melanoma for pathologists considering the use of melanoma FISH in their practice.

Data Sources: Review of the literature and personal experience of the authors.

Conclusions: Judicious use of a 4-probe multicolor melanoma FISH procedure can enhance accuracy for diagnosis of melanoma and improve classification of melanocytic proliferations.