Prognostic Value of Morphometric Features and the Callender Classification in Uveal Melanomas

Purpose: Cytomorphometric analysis of uveal melanoma has focused on nucleolar characteristics, although nuclear measurements are easier and more reproducible. In this study, we examine a restricted set of nuclear and nucleolar cytomorphometric variables in the search for the most quantifiable and reproducible prognostic parameter among these and discover a means of assessing the malignancy of tumors within the different Callender subgroups. Methods: Uveal melanomas from 94 patients with a minimum follow-up of 5 years underwent nuclear and nucleolar morphometric analysis using a digitized interactive video overlay system. Statistical analysis included univariate and multivariate survival analysis on morphometric variables and classic prognostic parameters (such as Callender cell type, size, etc.). Results: Univariate analysis of cytomorphometric parameters showed the standard deviation of nuclear area (NASD) to be the most significant variable ( P P P P P P P P P Conclusion: Cytomorphometric analysis of uveal melanoma should include nuclear area and may identify tumors of differing malignancy within the same Callender class.