The use and application of special techniques in assessing melanocytic tumours

To improve diagnostic accuracy, a number of novel techniques have been developed to assist in the evaluation of melanocytic tumours. Dematologists have begun to explore the use of new instruments, such as dermoscopy or confocal scanning laser microscopy, in their clinical assessment of pigmented lesions. They have also benefited from advances in digital photography and applied this technique to monitor patients with numerous atypical naevi. Likewise, the diagnostic armamentarium of pathologists has been enriched over the past decade. A number of new reagents have become available for immunohistochemical analysis of melanocytes in archival material, such as antibodies to tyrosinase, Melan-A/Mart-1, micropthalmia-associated transcription factor and PNL2. These markers have allowed improvements in the sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of melanoma and its distinction from histological mimics. However, some pitfalls in the use of various reagents have also become apparent. Most recently, molecular techniques are being explored for their potential use in the diagnosis of melanoma. In this review, various modalities are discussed with regard to their application in the evaluation of melanocytic neoplasms.