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.

This book provides a comprehensive, state-of-the-art account of the role of immunohistochemistry in the diagnosis of skin tumors, which is crucial given that overlapping histologic features and unusual morphologic changes can lead to considerable diagnostic uncertainty. The book reviews in detail the sensitivity and specificity of commonly available antibodies and their pattern of immunostaining. readers will learn when to order antibodies and how to interpret findings. In addition, prognostic markers are evaluated and emphasis placed on the pitfalls commonly encountered when evaluating these neoplasms. The text is complemented by a wealth of superb images. Helpful histograms and algorithms are included, and clear guidance is provided on the application and interpretation of less commonly used antibodies and immunostains. Applied Immunohistochemistry in the Evaluation of Skin Neoplasms will serve as an extremely valuable resource for practicing dermatopathologists and pathologists.