Human herpes virus DNA is rarely detected in non-UV light-associated primary malignant melanomas of mucous membranes
Lundberg, R.; Brytting, M.; Dahlgren, L.; Kanter-Lewensohn, L.; Schloss, L.; Dalianis, T.; Ragnarsson-Olding, B.
Anticancer Research 26(5b): 3627-3631
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 0250-7005 PMID: 17094377 Document Number: 601607
Background: UV-radiation is the most important causative factor for malignant melanomas of the skin. However, this is not the case for melanomas on sun-sheltered body surfaces. The aim of this study was to investigate if human herpes virus DNA could be found in malignant melanomas in sun-sheltered body areas and if these viruses play a role in the development of extracutaneous melanomas. Materials and Methods: Forty-one extracutaneous melanomas were dissected and used for further analysis. Quantitative PCR methods were used for detection of the eight human herpes viruses in melanoma samples. Results: Human herpes virus DNA was absent in 37141 melanomas, however, cytomegalovirus DNA was detected in two samples, and one sample each exhibited presence of Epstein-Barr virus and Human Herpes virus-6 DNA respectively. Conclusion: Human herpes virus DNA is rarely detected in primary malignant melanomas in non-sun exposed body surfaces and is not a major factor for the development of extracutaneous melanomas.