Advanced
Technical
IVT
epithelioid cell melanoma
Pronunciation: ep-ih-THEE-lee-oyd
Aggressive subtype of uveal melanoma characterized by large, polygonal cells with poor prognosis.
Full Definition
A histopathologic variant of uveal melanoma composed predominantly of large, round to polygonal cells resembling epithelial cells rather than typical spindle-shaped melanoma cells. Epithelioid melanomas are associated with worse prognosis, higher rates of metastasis, and shorter survival compared to spindle cell variants. These tumors often show increased mitotic activity, cellular pleomorphism, and may be associated with specific genetic alterations that influence treatment planning and prognostic counseling.
Usage
Usage note: Always correlate with genetic testing results when available for prognostic accuracy.
In Context
- "Histopathology revealed epithelioid cell melanoma with high mitotic index and extensive necrosis." — pathology report
- "The presence of epithelioid cell melanoma prompted more aggressive surveillance for systemic metastases." — oncology consultation
Also known as
epithelioid melanoma
Don't confuse with
spindle cell melanoma
mixed cell melanoma