Physiopathological mechanisms and morphological parameters involved in the progression of cutaneous melanoma
Abstract
Objective
To analyze the associations between clinical and histopathological parameters in cutaneous melanoma from a single-center perspective.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective analytical study including melanoma cases diagnosed in the Pathology Department of the Clinical County Hospital Mureș, Romania, over two years. The cohort included both primary tumors and metastases.
Results
The study included 49 cases (30 primary tumors and 19 metastases). Primary melanoma was more frequent in men (mean age 65.2 years), predominantly located on the trunk. Nodular melanoma was the most common subtype (24 cases) and was associated with higher Clark levels (p = 0.0015), increased Breslow thickness (p = 0.007), and ulceration (18 cases, p = 0.025), without a significant association with metastasis. Ulceration was associated with increased Breslow thickness (p = 0.018) and older patient age (p = 0.002). Ki-67 and mitotic rate were significantly associated with Breslow thickness, Clark level, and ulceration (p < 0.05). Metastases were more frequent in women (mean age 66 years), mainly involving inguinal and axillary lymph nodes. A significant association was observed between primary tumor location and lymph node metastasis distribution (p = 0.034).
Conclusions
Melanoma progression is associated with morphological parameters reflecting tumor biology and invasion. Routine histo-pathological markers, including Breslow thickness, ulceration, mitotic rate, and Ki-67, remain essential for prognostic assessment and risk stratification.
© 2026 Mara Mironiuc, Andreea Cătălina Tinca, Ovidiu Simion Cotoi, published by University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.