Animal model of intracutaneous melanoma.

An animal model which allows for the implantation and development of intracutaneous melanoma is described. Intradermal vesicles are created by a negative pressure apparatus in DBA/2J mice. S91 melanoma cells are injected into the blister cavities. Tumor growth occurs within 7 days and the yield approaches 100%. This model is a rapid, efficient, and applicable system for the study of melanoma growth dynamics and of the effects of systemic and topical anti-tumor agents on melanoma proliferation.