Pathology of Challenging Melanocytic Neoplasms

Abstract

Melanocytic neoplasms are of capital importance for all surgical pathologists and dermatopathologists. These tumors span a huge range of morphologic expression and biologic behavior, are potentially of the highest medical significance and are often fraught with diagnostic pitfalls and high litigation risk.Pathology of Challenging Melanocytic Neoplasms offers a dynamic text where readers will encounter a broad spectrum of challenging melanocytic lesions, both benign and malignant and will thereby acquire a solid, working knowledge that they can immediately apply to daily diagnosis. The authors aim to clarify this often thorny field, keeping a steady focus on patient-related issues. The volume emphasizes the practical application of basic morphologic principles, immunohistochemistry and molecular methods in order to secure a confident diagnosis. Abundant illustrations display the characteristic features of the most important disease entities.Rather than being yet another encyclopedic work of reference, this volume takes a fresh approach as it resembles a series of stimulating seminars employing exemplary case material to highlight, illustrate, and succinctly discuss the key points. To this end, the reader will be guided through a series of paired cases that pose a significant diagnostic challenge. By comprehensively comparing and contrasting two related entities, each such chapter will illuminate an intellectual pathway through which an important diagnostic puzzle can be solved. To broaden the differential diagnosis even further, additional illustrative cases are added to each discussion. Algorithms and tables summarize key points. Clinically relevant, up-to-date references will be provided to guide further study. Written by experts in the field, this novel text will be of great value to surgical pathologists in practice and dermatologists as well as residents and fellows training in these specialties.