Dermatology Reports (Jul 2021)

A rare case of polypoid primary anorectal melanoma with subsequent giant stomach metastasis: a gastrointestinal involvement of both primary and metastatic mucosal melanoma

  • Vincenzo De Giorgi,
  • Federica Scarfi,
  • Carlo Boselli,
  • Giacomo Sacchetti,
  • Nicola Natalizi,
  • Danilo Castellano,
  • Piero Covarelli

DOI
https://doi.org/10.4081/dr.2021.9092

Abstract

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Introduction: Melanoma can involve the gastrointestinal apparatus as both primary and metastatic lesions. Primary anorectal mucosal melanoma (ARMM) and metastatic gastric melanoma are rare entities and usually resulted in a poor prognosis. Case: We presented a case of a 61-year-old man who after the complete excision of an ARMM developed a gastric metastasis after almost three years form the complete tumour excision. Upon esophagogastroduodenoscopy, a giant ulcered mass resulted in melanoma metastasis. The patient underwent a near-total gastrectomy. After five months of follow-up, the patient is disease-free. Conclusion: The incidence of ARMMs is increasing, highlighting the necessity of new prevention and treatment strategies in order to achieve a better prognosis for these patients. There are no known risk factor for ARMMs but surgery, together with the combination of anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 antibodies, are promising therapeutic options. Early and aggressive treatments are required, together with a strict multidisciplinary approach.

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