A blue nevus is a type of benign (noncancerous) growth made up of specialized cells called melanocytes. It is characterized by its distinctive blue or bluish-gray color, which is caused by the presence of melanin deep within the dermis, a phenomenon known as the Tyndall effect. What causes a blue nevus? Blue nevus is generally …
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An oral melanotic macule is a benign (noncancerous), flat, pigmented spot found on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity. It is not a type of cancer nor a precursor to cancer but is simply a localized area of increased pigmentation. Does an oral melanotic macule need to be removed? This lesion is generally harmless …
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What is HMB-45? HMB-45 (Human Melanoma Black-45) is an antibody that binds to a protein called gp100. This protein is expressed in cells called melanocytes and tumours made up of melanocytes, including melanoma. How is HMB-45 used in pathology? HMB-45 staining is commonly used by pathologists to aid in the diagnosis and classification of tumors …
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What is Melan-A? Melan-A (also known as MART-1) is a protein primarily expressed in cells called melanocytes. These pigment-producing cells give color to the skin, hair, and eyes. Melan-A is often used as a marker to identify and diagnose melanoma, a type of cancer that arises from melanocytes. What is Melan-A used for in pathology? …
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What is a dermal nevus? A dermal nevus is a non-cancerous type of skin tumour made up of specialized cells called melanocytes. The tumour is called ‘dermal’ because the melanocytes are only found in a layer of skin called the dermis. Dermal nevi (more than one nevus are called nevi) are usually seen in individuals …
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What is a compound nevus? A compound nevus is a very common non-cancerous type of skin tumour made up of specialized cells called melanocytes. Compound nevi (nevi is the plural of nevus) are more common in people with light-coloured skin and can be found anywhere on the body. Another name for this type of tumour …
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What is melanoma in situ? Melanoma in situ is a non-invasive type of skin cancer made up of specialized cells called melanocytes. If left untreated, melanoma in situ can turn into an invasive type of skin cancer called invasive melanoma. Where does melanoma in situ start? Melanoma in situ starts from specialized cells called melanocytes …
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