Delayed malignant melanoma recurrence simulating primary ovarian cancer: case report

World J Surg Oncol. 2008 Nov 20:6:124. doi: 10.1186/1477-7819-6-124.

Abstract

Background: Metastatic involvement of the ovary from malignant melanoma is uncommon and presents a diagnostic challenge. Most cases are associated with disseminated disease and carry a dismal prognosis. Delayed ovarian recurrences from melanoma may mimic primary ovarian cancer and lead to aggressive cytoreductive procedures.

Case presentation: A case of malignant melanoma in a premenopausal patient is presented with late abdominal and ovarian metastatic spread, where ascitic fluid cytology led to an accurate preoperative diagnosis and the avoidance of unnecessary surgical procedures.

Conclusion: Secondary ovarian involvement is associated with a poor prognosis and efforts should be made for adequate palliation. Pathologic diagnosis with non-invasive procedures is crucial in order to avoid unnecessary surgery. Surgical interventions may be undertaken only in selected cases of limited metastatic disease, where complete resection is expected.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Melanoma / pathology*
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / pathology*
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Time Factors