HLA class II alleles predict recurrence and pattern of failure in early-stage melanoma patients

8503 Background: Prior reports have suggested a link between specific HLA class II alleles, including HLA-DRB1*1101, and melanoma recurrence. We therefore investigated the relationship between HLA class II alleles and clinical outcome in a large population of patients who presented with localized melanoma. Methods: HLA class II alleles were determined by typing of genomic DNA from patients who presented with localized melanoma (AJCC stage IA-IIC). Patients found to have occult regional disease by sentinel node biopsy were excluded. Log-rank and Cox analysis of outcome versus standard prognostic factors and common HLA class II alleles (=5% of the population) was performed. Results: 1,241 patients underwent HLA typing. The median primary tumor thickness was 1.1 mm, 16% were ulcerated, and the median follow-up was 56 months. Tumor thickness, ulceration, and Clark level were independent predictors of recurrence. The HLA class II allele HLA-DRB1*1101 (11% of the population) independently predicted a higher ris...