Making Sense of the Expanding Molecular Toolbox for Skin Cancer Diagnosis-Pigmented Lesions in the Molecular Era

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Alina Bridges discussed diagnostic and prognostic tests for pigmented lesions in dermatopathology, focusing on molecular testing. She highlighted the importance of molecular testing for assessing Spitz neoplasms, the historical significance of Sophie Spitz, and the evolving understanding of atypical Spitz neoplasms. Dr. Bridges emphasized the use of molecular tests, such as chromosomal microarray and next-generation sequencing, to differentiate between benign nevi and melanomas, including specific gene mutations associated with different types of melanocytic tumors.<br /><br />She also discussed the use of the CP-GEP Merlin assay for predicting nodal metastasis risk in melanoma patients eligible for sentinel lymph node biopsy, highlighting how the test can help determine whether patients should undergo the procedure or not based on their risk profile. Dr. Bridges explained the validation and reimbursement status of the test, as well as its potential future applications in liquid biopsies for monitoring disease progression and treatment responses in melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma patients.

Asset Subtitle

Alina G. Bridges, DO, FAAD

Keywords

Dr. Alina Bridges

pigmented lesions

dermatopathology

molecular testing

Spitz neoplasms

Sophie Spitz

atypical Spitz neoplasms

chromosomal microarray

next-generation sequencing

CP-GEP Merlin assay