Normalmast cells show membranous KIT immunolabeling, whereas neoplastic cells can show any oneof the 3 patterns.48 Cytoplasmic KIT protein localization (patterns II and III) is significantlyassociated with increased tumor recurrence and reduced survival,20,43,49 higher histological grade and increased cell proliferation13 in dermal MCTs, and increased recurrence and metastases in subcutaneous MCTs.44 Elevated expression of the cellular proliferation marker Ki67 and theproapoptotic protein BAX are also negative prognostic factors.10 This evidence concerns the gene KIT and neoplasm.