BRAF mutations in cutaneous melanoma are independently associated with age, anatomic site of the primary tumor and the degree of solar elastosis at the primary tumor site

摘要: Oncogenic BRAF mutations are more frequent in cutaneous melanoma occurring at sites with little or moderate sun-induced damage than severe cumulative solar ultraviolet (UV) damage. We studied melanomas from geographic regions different levels of ambient UV radiation to delineate the relative effects damage, age, and anatomic site on frequency mutations. show that BRAF-mutated occur a younger age group skin without marked elastosis less frequently affect head neck area, compared The findings indicate arise early life low doses, whereas require accumulation high doses over time. effect mutation spectrum further suggests regional differences among melanocytes.