Successful Management of Primary Gastric Melanoma: A Case Report Emphasizing the Importance of Early Diagnosis and Multidisciplinary Approach

Cureus. 2024 Oct 17;16(10):e71673. doi: 10.7759/cureus.71673. eCollection 2024 Oct.

Abstract

Melanoma is a malignant tumor that develops from the melanocyte-containing epithelial lining of mucosal membranes. This case report highlights a patient who presented with an asymptomatic decrease in hemoglobin (HGB), which necessitated an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy that identified a necrotic ulcerating lesion on the greater curvature of the stomach, which was confirmed to be a primary malignant gastric melanoma upon biopsy. The multidisciplinary team (MDT) subsequently recommended subtotal gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy. After subsequent surgical intervention, the tumor was successfully removed with clear margins. A successful multidisciplinary approach led to favorable postoperative outcomes, highlighting the importance of timely diagnosis and management of rare presentations of melanoma.

Keywords: adjuvant immunotherapy; gastrectomy; hemoglobin drop; melanocyte; melanoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports