Immunohistochemical stains in Mohs surgery: a review

Abstract

Background: During Mohs surgery, there are instances in which residual tumor cells may be difficult to detect, thereby increasing the risk of incomplete excision and tumor recurrence. It is possible to employ immunohistochemical techniques as an adjunct to routine hematoxylin and eosin staining to aid in ensuring negative margins.

Objective: To review the literature regarding the use of immunostains in Mohs surgery.

Results: Various immunostains have proved useful in detecting tumor cells in various malignancies, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, extramammary Paget's disease, primary cutaneous mucinous carcinoma, granular cell tumor, and trichilemmal carcinoma.

Conclusions: In this article, we review immunohistochemical stains that have been employed in Mohs micrographic surgery and evaluate their utility in enhancing detection of residual tumors with respect to tumor type, particularly in situations in which detection of residual tumor may be difficult.