Histologic Parallels Between Mastocytoma and MelanomaDemonstration of Melanin in Tumor Cells of Mastocytoma and Metachromasia in Tumor Cells of Melanoma
Milton R. Okun, MD;
Bernard C. Zook, DVM
Arch Dermatol. 1967;95(3):275-286.
Abstract
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A series of primary canine mastocytomas, canine melanomas, and human melanomas was studied. A majority of the melanomas contained some tumor cells with metachromatic granules; a majority of the mastocytomas contained some tumor cells with pigment granules, which were shown to be primarily melanin by means of differential staining. The metachromasia of the granules in the tumor cells of melanoma appeared to be due to the presence of both acid mucopolysaccharides and ribonucleic acid in varying proportions. The metachromasia of the granules in the tumor cells of canine mastocytoma and in the mast cells of urticaria pigmentosa also appeared to be produced by the composite effect of both acid mucopolysaccharides and RNA.
In addition to similarities in granulation, other parallels in the appearance and arrangement of the tumor cells were demonstrated in canine mastocytoma and canine melanoma.
The findings of this study add to the evidence that mast cells are capable of melanin synthesis and are histogenetically related to melanocytes.
It is suggested that nevi and melanomas are histogenetically related to canine mastocytomas.
Author Affiliations
Boston
From the Dermatopathology Laboratory, Boston City Hospital, the Department of Dermatology Tufts University of School Medicine (Dr. Okun), and the Department of Pathology, Angell Memorial Animal Hospital (Dr. Zook).
Footnotes
Accepted for publication Sept 7, 1966.
Reprint requests to 818 Harrison Ave, Boston 02118 (Dr. Okun).
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ABSTRACT
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