What are microsatellites in melanoma?

Microscopic satellites (microsatellites) in primary melanoma are defined as one or more discontinuous nests of neoplastic melanocytes measuring more than 0.05 mm in diameter that are clearly separated by normal dermis (i.e., no fibrosis or inflammation) from the main invasive component of the melanoma by a distance of …

What is T4 melanoma?

T4 means the melanoma is more than 4 mm thick. T2 and T4 melanoma is further divided into a and b depending on whether it is ulcerated or not. A means without ulceration, b means with ulceration.

What is microsatellite metastasis?

A microsatellite is defined as a cutaneous or subcutaneous metastasis adjacent or deep to a primary melanoma identified on microscopic examination of the primary tumor site (see Fig. 32.10). When present, microsatellites are usually identified on wide excision specimens.

What is t2a melanoma?

Stage II melanoma extends beyond the epidermis (very outer layer of skin) into the thicker dermis layer of the skin. It is thicker than Stage I melanoma and is slightly more likely to metastasize. There is still no evidence that Stage II melanoma has spread to the lymph tissues, lymph nodes, or body organs.

How are microsatellites a prognostic factor in melanoma?

The Role of Microsatellites as a Prognostic Factor in Primary Malignant Melanoma. A microsatellite was strictly defined as a discrete nest of tumor cells distinctly separated by a minimum of 0.5 mm (by ocular micrometer) from the main body (vertical growth phase) of the tumor by a layer of collagen or subcutaneous fat.

What does it mean to have malignant melanoma in situ?

Malignant melanoma in situ is clinically defined as a thin but spreading patch of melanoma the depth of which is relative to the gravity of the disease. It may be no deeper than the superficial skin layers but characterised by outward spread and increasing in diameter. How is melanoma detected?

How big is a satellite tumor in melanoma?

Satellites: Satellite lesions (also called micro satellites) are areas of tumor/melanoma located more than 0.05 mm, but less than 2cm, from the primary lesion. Satellites are described as being present or absent. These are also reflected in the staging.

How are microsatellites used to diagnose cancer?

A microsatellite was strictly defined as a discrete nest of tumor cells distinctly separated by a minimum of 0.5 mm (by ocular micrometer) from the main body (vertical growth phase) of the tumor by a layer of collagen or subcutaneous fat.