Growth dynamics of acquired melanocytic nevi. Higher reactivity of proliferating cell nuclear antigen in junctional and compound nevi than intradermal nevi

J Am Acad Dermatol. 1994 Aug;31(2 Pt 1):220-4.

Abstract

Background: The histogenesis of acquired melanocytic nevi is still a matter of debate.

Objective: To provide data on the histogenesis, we investigated the lesional area of acquired melanocytic nevi and the proliferative activity of the nevus cells.

Methods: Proliferative activity was examined with a monoclonal antibody against proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). The lesional area of the nevus was estimated in histologic sections.

Results: Intradermal nevus was the largest of the acquired melanocytic nevi but had few PCNA-positive nevus cells. In contrast, junctional nevi were smallest and showed the highest PCNA positivity. Statistical analysis showed a significant inverse correlation between the largest lesional area and PCNA positivity.

Conclusion: The findings of the present study are in accordance with an epidermal melanocytic origin of acquired melanocytic nevi.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antigens, Neoplasm / analysis*
  • Cell Division
  • Humans
  • Immunoenzyme Techniques
  • Nevus / immunology
  • Nevus / pathology*
  • Nevus, Intradermal / immunology
  • Nevus, Intradermal / pathology*
  • Nevus, Pigmented / immunology
  • Nevus, Pigmented / pathology*
  • Nuclear Proteins / analysis*
  • Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen
  • Skin / immunology
  • Skin / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / immunology
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology*

Substances

  • Antigens, Neoplasm
  • Nuclear Proteins
  • Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen