Fractal Quantification of the Microvasculature Heterogeneity in Cutaneous Melanoma

Abstract

Background: Recent advances in angiogenesis research have led to the introduction of new prognosis factors. Although the vessel count is effective in breast cancer, the prognosis of primary cutaneous melanoma (PCM) does not seems to be directly influenced by this parameter. However, the microscopic examination of PCM suggests variability in the repartition of the microvasculature. Objective and Method: To explore the possibility of extracting information about the vessel distribution by performing a textural analysis on the grey level of histological sections by means of fractal characterization by both Fourier spectrum and multifractal analysis. Results: Three different patterns of vasculature were identified according to the vessel density and distribution. Conclusion: It is possible to differentiate and quantify clearly the differences in the microvessel profile organization using the fractal and multifractal methods.

Vascularity and Fractal Dimension of the Dermo-Epidermal Interface in Guttate and Plaque-Type Psoriasis

“…However, fractal geometry may be more valid for investigating and quantifying complex structures. Histopathological studies have investigated fractal analysis and confirmed the applicability of the method [21, 24, 33, 34, 35, 36]. The complexity or roughness differences between normal and abnormal tissue boundaries can thus be demonstrated and quantified.…”

“…The classical analytical methods used to quantify these changes are based on Euclidean geometry [8, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]. In some instances, fractal geometry is better suited for assessing structures with irregular shapes because quantitative data in the volume, area and length of such objects vary dramatically as a function of the scale of measurement used [19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25]. …”

Thigmotropism of Malignant Melanoma Cells

“…The extracellular migratory MM metastases may be associated with angiogenic fast-growing MM [46, 59]. Angiotropism is regarded as a predictor for local recurrence and in-transit metastasis [60].…”

Molecular histology on the diagnostic cutting edge between malignant melanomas and cutaneous melanocytomas (Review)

“…However, it should be noted that some growth-stunted MM show weak angiogenesis (53). Conversely, angiomatoid melanocytomas have been described (54)(55)(56)(57). Therefore, the differences in MM and melanocytoma angiogenesis seem to be more statistically significant than clinically useful due to the extensive overlap in extent from any case to case.…”