Immunohistochemical and Proteomic Profile of Melanotic Medulloblastoma

We present the case of a 6-year-old male affected by an infratentorial tumor. Histological diagnosis was melanotic medulloblastoma. Immunohistochemistry showed in the melanin rich areas positive cells for HMB45. We performed a proteomic study to compare protein profiles in melanotic versus non-melanotic areas. Protein profiles of different areas Of the tumor displayed similarity, with the exception of seven proteins. In accordance with the hypothesis that melanotic medulloblastomas produce oculocutaneous melanin, proteomic analysis showed melanocytic-associated antigens and epidermal autoantigen 450K in the pigmented nodule; both these proteins have I significant role as markers of melanotic elements. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:875-877. (C) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.