Human herpes virus DNA is rarely detected in non-UV light-associated primary malignant melanomas of mucous membranes.

BACKGROUND UV-radiation is the most important causative factor for malignant melanomas of the skin. However, this is not the case for melanomas on sun-sheltered body surfaces. The aim of this study was to investigate if human herpes virus DNA could be found in malignant melanomas in sun-sheltered body areas and if these viruses play a role in the development of extracutaneous melanomas. MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty-one extracutaneous melanomas were dissected and used for further analysis. Quantitative PCR methods were used for detection of the eight human herpes viruses in melanoma samples. RESULTS Human herpes virus DNA was absent in 37/41 melanomas, however, cytomegalovirus DNA was detected in two samples, and one sample each exhibited presence of Epstein-Barr virus and Human Herpes virus-6 DNA respectively. CONCLUSION Human herpes virus DNA is rarely detected in primary malignant melanomas in non-sun exposed body surfaces and is not a major factor for the development of extracutaneous melanomas.