Rapid BRAF Mutation Testing in Pigmented Melanomas

In this study, we evaluated the performance of Idylla BRAF mutation detection in 23 melanomas including resections, small biopsies, and cytology cell blocks. Pathologists assigned each case a pigment score from 0 to 2 based on extent of melanin content. Samples with a pigment score of 2 were successfully resulted, thus demonstrating that high melanin content did not inhibit the assay. Sensitivity and specificity of BRAF mutation detection were 100% compared with reference laboratory testing. Tissue input requirements were low, with the Idylla successfully detecting a BRAF mutation in cell block material containing only ∼400 tumor cells. The assay was simple and quick to perform, with total hands-on time of 5–10 minutes and instrument time ∼90 minutes. In summary, the Idylla BRAF mutation assay provides rapid, robust testing for melanomas with high melanin content, including samples with limited material. The assay requires minimal technical expertise, making mutation status determination accessible in a range of clinical laboratory settings. The total assay time of
Source: The American Journal of Dermatopathology - Category: Pathology Tags: Original Study Source Type: research