Expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and

peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma during malignant melanoma progression Background: Cancer chemoprevention using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is frequently attributed to cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibition, although recent studies suggest that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARg) may also be involved. While surgical excision remains the treatment mainstay for localized malignant melanoma, certain high-risk patients may benefit from adjunctive chemotherapy. In this study, we compared COX-2 and PPARg immunohistological staining in benign nevi, primary melanomas and metastatic melanomas to help predict the effectiveness of compounds targeting these markers. Methods: COX-2 and PPARg immunohistological staining was performed and reviewed in 99 melanocytic lesions, including 3