Primary Anorectal Melanoma: Case Report and Review of a Rare Neoplasm

Primary anorectal melanoma is a rare malignant melanocytic neoplasm; its principal manifestation is rectal bleeding. It has an ominous prognosis with a five-year survival rate of 10%. The case of a 56-year-old woman with rectal bleeding and the sensation of a rectal mass is presented. A polypoid lesion, resected transanally, was documented in the distal rectum during the colonoscopy. The histological study confirmed a primary anorectal melanoma.

El melanoma anorrectal primario es una neoplasia melanocítica maligna poco frecuente, su principal manifestación es el sangrado rectal. Tiene un pronóstico ominoso con una tasa de sobrevida del 10% a 5 años. Se presenta el caso de una mujer de 56 años con rectorragia y sensación de masa rectal. Durante la colonoscopia se documentó una lesión polipoide en el recto distal, que se resecó por vía transanal. El estudio histológico confirmó la presencia de un melanoma anorrectal primario.

Melanoma maligno cutáneo con metástasis sistémica en una hembra de tigre de bengala blanca (Panthera tigris tigris) / Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma with Systemic Metastasis in a Female White Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris)

Resumen La presencia del melanoma maligno cutáneo en felinos exóticos está pobremente reportada. Una hembra de tigre de Bengala blanca (Panthera tigris tigris), de 6 años, no castrada, solitaria y viviendo en un ambiente adecuado, fue evaluada por la presencia de una masa cerca del ojo izquierdo. La histopatología de la biopsia remitida mostró la presencia de melanocitos con características anaplásicas (pleomorfismo, citomegalia, cariomegalia, binucleación), área hemorrágica y foco inflamatorio fibrinoso. El diagnóstico histopatológico fue melanoma maligno. Dos meses después del diagnóstico, la tigresa manifestó un deterioro considerable con pérdida de peso y presencia de una masa redonda en el cuello. En aquel momento, por su tamaño, el melanoma obstruía totalmente la visión. Con base en esto, y por razones humanitarias, el animal fue eutanasiado. Al momento de la necropsia, se observó metástasis en pulmones, pleura y riñones. Este caso evidencia la importancia de dar a conocer la presentación de melanomas en especies poco reportadas.

Abstract The occurrence of cutaneous malignant melanoma in exotic felids is poorly reported. A 6-year-old, unneutered, solitary, female white Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), living in a suitable environment, was evaluated for the presence of a mass near the left eye. Histopathology of the referred biopsy showed the presence of melanocytes with anaplastic features (pleomorphism, cytomegaly, karyomegaly, binucleation), hemorrhagic area and fibrinous inflammatory focus. The histopathological diagnosis was malignant melanoma. Two months after diagnosis, the tigress manifested considerable deterioration with weight loss and the presence of a round mass on the neck. At that time, because of its size, the melanoma totally obstructed vision. Based on this, and for humane reasons, the animal was euthanized. At the time of necropsy, metastasis was observed in the lungs, pleura and kidneys. This case demonstrates the importance of raising awareness of melanomas in underreported species.

Melanoma maligno primario de pulmón / Primary malignant lung melanoma

Introducción: El melanoma maligno es un tumor de etiología multifactorial, cuando afecta al sistema respiratorio su origen es casi siempre metastásico, y como tumor primario es muy infrecuente, constituye el 0,07 por ciento de los tumores pulmonares malignos. Objetivo: Presentar un caso clínico con diagnóstico de melanoma maligno primario de pulmón. Presentación del caso: Se presenta el caso de una mujer de 64 años de edad, exfumadora, sin antecedentes de melanoma, que presenta tos seca asociada a disnea, los esfuerzos físicos y dolor torácico. Además de astenia y pérdida de peso. Se le realizó biopsia pulmonar mediante broncoscopia y se le diagnosticó melanoma. Conclusiones: El melanoma primario pulmonar es uno de los más raros del tipo de melanoma visceral, es una entidad neumológica infrecuente y el diagnóstico preciso requiere una investigación detallada y el cumplimiento de criterios clínicos y anatomopatológicos específicos(AU)

Introduction: Malignant melanoma is a tumor of multifactorial etiology, when it affects the respiratory system its origin is almost always metastatic, and as a primary tumor it is very infrequent, it constitutes 0.07 por ciento of malignant lung tumors. Objective: To report a clinical case with a diagnosis of primary malignant melanoma of the lung. Case report: We report the case of a 64-year-old woman, former smoker, with no history of melanoma, who had dry cough associated with dyspnea with physical exertion and chest pain. In addition to asthenia and weight loss, she had a lung biopsy by bronchoscopy and was diagnosed with melanoma. Conclusions: Primary pulmonary melanoma is one of the rarest of the visceral melanoma type, this is an infrequent pneumological entity and the precise diagnosis requires detailed investigation and the fulfillment of specific clinical and pathological criteria(AU)

Melanoma amelanótico diseminado / Disseminated amelanotic melanoma

El melanoma amelanótico es una de las neoplasias con mayor índice de mortalidad por su alta agresividad y baja probabilidad diagnóstica. Afecta a la población de todo el orbe, más frecuente en caucásicos, con predisposición genética y factores de riesgo como la exposición al sol. Presenta tasas de supervivencia menor a 10 por ciento a 5 años y de recurrencia elevadas; con evidencia de procesos metastásicos a distancia en órganos como cerebro, tejido celular subcutáneo, pulmón, peritoneo, hueso, lo que ensombrece el pronóstico. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 21 años de edad que acude al hospital por presentar lesiones equimóticas, nódulos subcutáneos y cefalea hemicránea izquierda de dos meses de evolución. Se le realizó tomografías de tórax abdomen y resonancia magnética de cráneo y evidenciaron diseminación metastásica. Se realizó estudio histopatológico con inmunohistoquímica que informó melanoma amelanótico(AU)

Amelanotic melanoma is one of the neoplasms with the highest mortality rate because it is highly aggressive and the diagnostic probability is low. It affects the population of the entire globe, more frequent in Caucasians, with genetic predisposition and risk factors such as sun exposure. It presents survival rates of less than 10 percent at 5 years and high recurrence rates; with evidence of distant metastatic processes in organs such as brain, subcutaneous cellular tissue, lung, peritoneum, bone, which casts a shadow on the prognosis. We report the case of a 21-year-old patient who came to the hospital due to ecchymotic lesions, subcutaneous nodules and a two-month evolution of left hemicrania headache. She underwent chest and abdomen tomography and MRI of the skull. They showed metastatic spread. Histopathological study was performed with immunohistochemistry that reported amelanotic melanoma(AU)

Melanoma primario de cuello uterino: Reporte de caso / Primary malignant melanoma of the cervix: Case report

Resumen El melanoma primario de mucosas representa el 1% de todos los cánceres. Su localización en cuello uterino es rara y existen menos de 100 casos reportados en la literatura hasta la fecha. Los datos son limitados en cuanto su estadificación y tratamiento y su pronóstico es malo con tasas de supervivencia del 10% a 5 años. Se presenta el caso clínico de una paciente de 82 años con sangrado vaginal, con evidencia de una lesión melanótica en cuello uterino, la biopsia de la lesión reportó compromiso por tumor maligno pobremente diferenciado, con inmuno perfil que confirma melanoma maligno. Los estudios de extensión no mostraron enfermedad metastásica a distancia, se presentó el caso en junta multidisciplinaria de ginecología oncológica por lo que se indicó tratamiento con radioterapia pélvica externa exclusiva con intención paliativa para control de síntomas, teniendo en cuenta: la edad, las comorbilidades y el estado funcional ECOG (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group) 3; luego de 10 meses de seguimiento la paciente falleció.

Abstract Primary mucosal melanoma represents 1% of all cancers, the location in the cervix is rare, there are less than 100 cases reported in the literature to date, the data is limited in terms of staging and treatment, its prognosis is poor with survival rates of 10% at 5 years. We present a clinical case of a primary melanoma of the cervix in an 82-year-old patient with vaginal bleeding with evidence of a melanotic lesion in the cervix. The biopsy of the lesion reported poorly differentiated malignant tumor involvement, with an immuno-profile that favors melanoma. Extension studies were performed that did not show distant metastatic disease, the case was presented in a multidisciplinary oncological gynecology meeting, indicating treatment with exclusive external pelvic radiotherapy with palliative intention for symptom control taking into account patient comorbidities and ECOG functional status. (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group) 3, after 10 months of follow-up the patient died.

Two-Step Digital Follow-up of Patients at High Risk for Melanoma: a Retrospective Analysis of 152 Patients. / Seguimiento digitalizado combinado en población con alto riesgo de desarrollar un melanoma maligno: análisis retrospectivo de 152 pacientes.

BACKGROUND: Digital dermoscopy (DD) has been found to improve the accuracy of melanoma diagnosis in high-risk patients. A 2-step approach combining DD and total-body photography (TBP) can facilitate the detection of new lesions or early macroscopic changes in existing lesions. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine the number of biopsies needed to diagnose melanoma and to describe the clinical and dermoscopic characteristics of melanoma diagnosed in patients with pigmented lesions under follow-up with DD and TBP. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective study of 152 patients with a high risk of melanoma who were followed using a 2-step digital approach at Hospital del Mar in Barcelona, Spain, between 2002 and 2016. We analyzed the characteristics of pigmented lesions excised after macroscopic changes were detected by periodic DD and TBD. RESULTS: Biopsy results of 99 lesions (84 dysplastic nevi, 13 melanomas, and 2 compound melanocytic nevi) showed a ratio of benign melanocytic lesions to melanomas of 1:6.6. The mean Breslow thickness was 0.19 mm. Macroscopic changes were significantly more common in melanomas than in melanocytic nevi (P = 0.018). Dermoscopic findings associated with melanoma were asymmetric growth and focal structural changes (P < 0.001). The specific features associated with a diagnosis of melanoma were asymmetry (P < 0.001), a reverse pigment network (P = 0.011), atypical globules (P = 0.011), and polymorphous vessels (P = 0.045). CONCLUSIONS: TBP follow-up is a useful tool for the early diagnosis of melanoma. In our series, 50% of melanomas diagnosed during digital follow-up were detected by observation of a new lesion via TBP mapping or macroscopic changes in an existing lesion. Dermoscopic follow-up is essential in patients at high risk for melanoma as both melanocytic nevi and melanoma show a range of specific dermoscopic features, and a diagnosis of melanoma can only be based on a record of changes in the appearance of lesions during follow-up.

Efficacy and reproducibility of lymphatics mapping technique with sentinel lymph node biopsy in melanoma.

INTRODUCTION: The study of the Sentinel Lymph Node (SLN) in Melanoma is a procedure that aims the identification of the first node to which the affected cutaneous sector drains in order to avoid unnecessary lymphadenectomies. The present study documents the frequency of identification of SLN; the relationship between positive SLN (PSLN) and recurrence, between the Breslow index (BI) and PSLN, and between BI and disease recurrence. METHOD: We analyzed the records of 148 patients with melanoma stages I and II undergoing lymphatic mapping and GC biopsy from 1999 to 2017 in a third level institution in Córdoba, Argentina. We performed preoperative lympho centellography, lymphatic mapping with combined technique and SLN biopsy. Postoperative controls were established in order to detect recurrences. RESULTS: SLN was identified in 145 patients (97.9%), being positive in 25 cases (17.2%). Recurrence was detected in 10 (8.3%) patients with negative SLN (NSLN), and in 2 (9.09%) with PSLN (p = 0.188). The median BI was 2 mm in PCG patients and 1.2 mm in GCN patients (p = 0.002). The mean BI in patients with recurrence was 2.77 mm, and 2.01 mm in those who did not show relapse (p = 0.311). CONCLUSIONS: The combined technique allows a high GC identification rate. A greater tendency to recurrence was observed in the presence of CPG. A statistically significant relationship between GCP and IB was found. The GC technique is effective and replicable in our environment.

INTRODUCCIÓN: El estudio del ganglio centinela (GC) en el melanoma maligno es un procedimiento que busca la identificación del primer ganglio al cual drena el sector cutáneo comprometido a fin de evitar linfadenectomías innecesarias. El presente estudio documenta la frecuencia de identificación del GC y la relación entre GC positivo (GCP) y recurrencia, entre el índice de Breslow (IB) y GCP, y entre el IB y la recurrencia de la enfermedad. MÉTODO: Se analizaron los registros de 148 pacientes con melanoma maligno en estadios I y II sometidos a mapeo linfático y biopsia de GC desde 1999 hasta 2017 en una institución de tercer nivel de Córdoba, Argentina. Se realizaron linfocentellografía preoperatoria, mapeo linfático con técnica combinada y biopsia de GC. Se establecieron controles posoperatorios reglados a fin de detectar recurrencias. RESULTADOS: Se identificó el GC en 145 pacientes (97.9%) y resultó positivo en 22 (17.2%). Se detectó recurrencia en 10 pacientes (8.3%) con GC negativo (GCN), y en 2 (9.09%) con GCP (p = 0.188). La mediana del IB fue de 2 mm en los pacientes con GCP y de 1.2 mm en los pacientes con GCN (p = 0.002). La media del IB en los pacientes con recurrencia fue de 2.77 mm, y en los que no mostraron recaída fue de 2.01 mm (p = 0.311). CONCLUSIONES: La técnica combinada permite una alta tasa de identificación del GC. Se observó una mayor tendencia a la recurrencia en presencia de GCP. Se comprobó una relación estadísticamente significativa entre GCP e IB. La técnica del GC es efectiva y replicable en nuestro medio.

Formas cutáneas y mucosas infrecuentes de melanoma: parte I / Skin and mucosal forms infrequent melanoma: part I

Se han descrito varios subtipos infrecuentes de melanoma maligno en la literatura médica. A pesar de su baja frecuencia ­ que no suele superar el dos por ciento en varias series de melanoma ­ es muy importante reconocerlos precozmente pues un diagnóstico tardío está asociado a un muy mal pronóstico. En esta primera parte incluiremos; melanoma animal, melanoma desmoplásico, melanoma dérmico primario, melanoma en mucosas y melanoma nevoide.

Several infrequent subtypes of malignant melanoma have been described in the medical literature. Although their low frequency ­ less than two percent in various series of melanoma ­ it is very important to early recognize them because late diagnosis is associated with a very poor prognosis. In this first manuscript we will include; animal melanoma, desmoplastic melanoma, dermal melanoma, mucous melanoma and nevoid melanoma.

Formas cutáneas y mucosas infrecuentes de melanoma: parte II / Skin and mucosal forms infrequent melanoma: part II

Se han descrito varios subtipos infrecuentes de melanoma maligno en la literatura médica. A pesar de su baja frecuencia ­ que no suele superar el dos por ciento en varias series de melanoma ­ es muy importante reconocerlos precozmente pues un diagnóstico tardío está asociado a un muy mal pronóstico. En esta segunda parte incluiremos: melanoma verrugoso, melanoma polipoideo, melanoma hipomelanótico y amelanótico, melanoma folicular, melanoma spitzoide, melanoma con diferenciación no melanocítica.

Several infrequent subtypes of malignant melanoma have been described in the medical literature. Although their low frequency ­ less than two percent in various series of melanoma ­ it is very important to early recognize them because late diagnosis is associated with a very poor prognosis. In this second part we will include: verrucous melanoma, polypoid melanoma, hypomelanotic and amelanotic melanoma, follicular melanoma, spitzoid melanoma and non-melanocytic differentiation melanoma.

Melanoma maligno metatastásico: reporte de caso / Metastasic malignament melanoma a case report

El Melanoma Maligno es una de las neoplasias más agresivas, siendo responsable del 90% de las muertes por cáncer de piel; Su incidencia fue incrementándose durante las últimas décadas a nivel mundial. La progresión de la enfermedad puede presentarse en forma de recurrencia local, por diseminación linfática hacia los ganglios regionales, o por metástasis hematógena a sitios distantes: piel, órganos y hueso entre otros. Las metástasis regionales y a distancia, se presentan aproximadamente en 10% de los pacientes con melanoma, al momento del diagnóstico, conllevando peor pronóstico. La supervivencia a 5 y 10 años en pacientes con metástasis a distancia es de 12%-15% y 8%, respectivamente. Se presenta el caso de un paciente que rechaza tratamiento inicial de ablación de lesión primaria, presentándose múltiples metástasis y desenlace fatal.

The malignant melanoma is one of the most aggressive neoplasias, being responsible for 90% of the deaths due to skin cancer; its incidence was increasing during the last decades worldwide. The progression of the disease can occur in the form of local recurrence, by lymphatic dissemination to the regional ganglia, or by hematogenous metastasis to distant sites: skin, organs and bone among others. Regional and distant metastasis occurs in approximately 10% of patients with melanoma at the time of diagnosis, leading to a worse prognosis. The 5-year and 10-year survival in patients with distant metastasis is 12% - 15% and 8%, respectively. The case of a patient who refuses initial treatment of primary lesion is presented, presenting multiple metastasis and fatal outcome.

Evaluación de reactividad inmunohistoquímica con método del Complejo Avidina­Biotina (ABC) / Evaluation of immunohistochemical reactivity with Avidin-Biotin Complex (ABC) method

Inmunohistoquímica es toda técnica que permite detectar in situ componentes celulares y extracelulares por medio de anticuerpos específicos, empleando sistemas de detección enzimáticos. Dentro de los métodos inmunohistoquímicos, la técnica del complejo avidina­biotina(ABC) es ampliamente utilizada debido a su alta sensibilidad. El objetivo del presente estudio fueevaluar la reactividad inmunohistoquímica del anticuerpo 4C4.9 para la detección de la proteínaS-100, utilizando el método ABC. Para la evaluación de la reactividad inmunohistoquímica se utilizaron 2 biopsias de piel humana con diagnóstico histopatológico de melanoma maligno nodular ulcerado y nevus melanocítico intradérmico, provenientes del Laboratorio de Investigación en Biotecnología Animal de la Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile. Se utilizó el Kit VECTASTAIN®como método de detección, la dilución del anticuerpo 4C4.9 fue 1/250 y la temperatura de incubación fue a 4 ºC ó 37 ºC por 18 horas. Para validar la técnica, se realizó un control positivo y otro negativo para 4C4.9. Los resultados de la tinción inmunohistoquímica por el método del complejo ABC mostraron tinción positiva para la proteína S-100, tanto en melanoma maligno nodular ulcerado, como en nevus melanocítico intradérmico, incubados durante 18 horas a 4 ºC ó 37 ºC. Sin embargo, la inmunotinción fue más intensa cuando el anticuerpo primario se incubó a 37 ºC. Para una correcta interpretación de los resultados, es necesario tener en consideración que la reacción antígeno-anticuerpo se ve influenciada por diversos factores, como la concentración del anticuerpo, el tiempo y la temperatura de incubación. En conclusión, nuestros resultados sugieren incubarlas muestras con el primer anticuerpo (4C4.9) en una dilución de 1/250 en agua destilada, incu-bando durante 18 h a 37 ºC. Se recomienda la utilización del anticuerpo 4C4.9 como apoyo al diagnóstico y diagnóstico diferencial.

Immunohistochemistry is anytechnique that can detect cellular and extracellular components in situ by means of specific antibodies,using enzymatic detection systems. Among immunohistochemical methods, the technique ofavidin - biotin complex (ABC) is widely used because of its high sensitivity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunohistochemical reactivity of the4C4.9 antibody for detection of S-100 protein using the ABC method. For the evaluation ofimmunohistochemical reactivity 2 biopsies of humanskin were used with histopathological diagnosis ofulcerated malignant melanoma and melanocyticintradermal nevi from the Research Laboratory onAnimal Biotechnology of the Universidad de La Fron-tera, Chile. The Kit VECTASTAIN® was used asdetection method, the dilution the 4C4.9 antibodywas 1/250 and incubation temperature was at 4 °Cor 37 °C for 18 hours. To validate the technique, apositive control and a negative for 4C4.9 was performed. The results of immunohistochemicalstaining by the method of ABC complex showed positive staining for protein S-100 both in ulcerated malignant melanoma and melanocytic intradermalnevi, incubated for 18 hours at 4 °C or 37 °C.However, immunostaining was more intense when the primary antibody was incubated at 37° C. For acorrect interpretation of the results, it is necessary to take into consideration that the antigen-antibody reaction is influenced by various factors such as the concentration of antibody, time and temperature ofincubation. In conclusion, our results suggest incubating the samples with the first antibody (4C4.9)at 1/250 dilution in distilled water, incubating for 18h at 37 ºC. However, immunostaining was moreintense when the primary antibody was incubated at37° C. For a correct interpretation of the results, it isnecessary to take into consideration that antigen-antibody reaction is influenced by various factors suchas the concentration of antibody, time and temperature of incubation. In conclusion, our results suggest incubating the samples with the first antibody(4C4.9) at 1/250 dilution in distilled water, incubating for 18 h at 37 ºC. The use of the antibody 4C4.9 is recommended to support the diagnosis and differential diagnosis.

Melanoma subungueal de la mano: reporte de un caso / Hand’s subungueal melanoma: A case report

El melanoma es considerado una neoplasia melanocítica maligna; la localización subungueal corresponde al 0.7-3.5% de todos los melanomas. Clínicamente se presenta como una melanoniquia en general asintomática. Comunicamos un paciente masculino de 67 años, que consulta por presentar melanoniquia estriada en el cuarto dedo de la mano izquierda. El estudio histopatológico de biopsia informa un melanoma acral, por lo que se procede a realizar resección completa de la lesión con amputación de la falange distal; el paciente evolucionó satisfactoriamente. Este melanoma se origina de la matriz ungular, aunque se ha propuesto la asociación con traumas, su etiología no está clara. Histológicamente, se caracteriza por una proliferación de melanocitos atípicos o fusiformes, con grados variables de invasión; algunas lesiones son pigmentadas y otras amelanóticas. Se debe establecer el diagnóstico diferencial con: hematomas, osteomielitis, onicomicosis, granuloma piógeno, paroniquia, enfermedad de Kaposi, carcinoma espinocelular, entre otras. Algunos factores pronósticos incluyen profundidad de invasión, índice mitótico, ulceración, índice de proliferación con Ki 67 para nombrar solo algunos factores del denominado “histopronóstico”. El retraso en el diagnóstico del melanoma subungueal condiciona un mal pronóstico. El tratamiento apunta hacia la intervención quirúrgica en estadios tempranos, con evaluación del ganglio centinela (esto varía según la escuela académica). Sin embargo, actualmente se hace referencia a nuevos fármacos, que modifican la respuesta inmune o que intervienen en el metabolismo celular, con lo que se dan los primeros pasos para modificar la historia natural de esta enfermedad.

Introduction: melanoma is considered a biologically aggressive neoplasm. It’s more common in the 6th decade. Subungual melanoma corresponding to 0.7-3.5% of all melanomas. The most common locations are hallux, thumb, index and ring. Clinically, it presents as an asymptomatic melanonychia. Case Report: male aged 67 who consulted for striated melanonychia fourth finger left hand. Biopsy histopathological study reports malignant melanoma. Complete resection of the lesion was performed with amputation of distal phalanx. Patient evolves satisfactorily. Discussion: this melanoma originates from the nail matrix. Although it has been proposed partnership with traumas, its etiology is unclear. Hasn’t been able to establish an association with race, skin type and sun exposure, as in other melanoma’s types. Histologically it is characterized by a proliferation of atypical melanocytes or fusiform with varying degrees of invasion. Some injuries are pigmented and others may be amelanotic. Should be established the differential diagnosis with hematomas, osteomyelitis, onychomycosis, pyogenic granuloma, paronychia, among other injuries. Some prognostic factors include depth of invasion, mitotic rat, ulceration, proliferation index among others. The delay in diagnosis of subungual melanoma determines a poor prognosis. The treatment aims to surgery in early stages, with evaluation of sentinel node. But now referred to new drugs that modify the immune response or that involve its cellular metabolism thus taking the first steps to modify the natural history of this disease.

Melanoma maligno cutáneo en pacientes de la provincia de Las Tunas / Malignant cutaneous melanoma in patients from Las Tunas province

Fundamento: el melanoma maligno es una neoplasia de piel altamente agresiva, que manifiesta un aumento constante y rápido de su incidencia.Objetivo: caracterizar variables en pacientes diagnosticados con melanoma cutáneo, cuyas biopsias fueron analizadas en el departamento de anatomía patológica del Hospital General Docente Dr. Ernesto Guevara de la Serna, durante el período de enero de 2008 a diciembre de 2014.Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, en 31 pacientes atendidos en el lugar y el período de tiempo referidos anteriormente. Se utilizó el modelo oficial de biopsia como fuente secundaria de recolección de la información y la misma fue procesada utilizando la estadística descriptiva.Resultados: el 10,6 por ciento de las biopsias analizadas correspondieron a melanoma cutáneo, predominó su frecuencia en los años 2011 y 2010, con un 25,8 por ciento y 19,3 por ciento, respectivamente. Se evidenció en mayor por ciento en el sexo masculino (67,7 por ciento) y en el grupo de edad entre 60 y 69 años (35,4 por ciento). Los pacientes de raza blanca fueron los más afectados, con un 90,3 por ciento, y la localización predominante fue en los miembros inferiores, en el 45,1 por ciento de los casos. El nivel de invasión de Clark predominante fue el IV, para el 32,2 por ciento de la muestra y la variedad histológica más frecuente fue el melanoma maligno nodular, en 19 pacientes para un 61,2 por ciento.Conclusiones: el melanoma cutáneo predominó en el sexo masculino, en las extremidades inferiores y se manifestó en los pacientes un diagnóstico tardío, al predominar el nivel IV de invasión de Clark y el melanoma nodular como tipo histológico de mayor frecuencia(AU)

Background: malignant melanoma is a highly aggressive skin neoplasia, whose incidence shows a constant and rapid increase.Objective: to characterize variables in patients diagnosed with cutaneous melanoma, whose biopsies were analyzed in the pathologic anatomy department of Dr. Ernesto Guevara de la Serna General Teaching Hospital from January, 2008 to December, 2014.Methods: a descriptive and cross-sectional study was performed in 31 patients treated in the place and period of time mentioned above. The official form of biopsy was used as a secondary source of collecting information and it was processed using descriptive statistics.Results: the 10,6 percent of the biopsies analyzed corresponded with cutaneous melanoma, its frequency prevailed in 2011 and 2010, with a 25,8 percent and 19,3 percent respectively. It was evident a higher percentage in males (67,7 percent) and in the age group between 60 and 69 years old, with a 35,4 percent. Caucasian patients were the most affected ones, with a 90,3 percent and the predominant location was in the lower limbs in 45,1 percent of the cases. The prevailing Clark invasion level was IV, evident by the 32,2 percent of the sample, and the most frequent histological variety was the malignant nodular melanoma in 19 patients, for a 61,2 percent.Conclusions: cutaneous melanoma prevailed in lower extremities in males and it had a belated diagnosis, since there was prevalence of IV Clark invasion level and nodular melanoma as the most frequent histological type(AU)

Melanoma maligno mucoso de cavidad nasal / Mucosal malignant melanoma of the nasal cavity

El melanoma maligno de cavidad nasal y senos paranasales es una patología rara, representa alrededor del 1% de todos los melanomas. Su sintomatología es inespecífica lo que dificulta el diagnóstico, tiene muy mal pronóstico con bajas tasas de supervivencia. Presentamos el caso de un varón de 66 años de edad, fumador de 30-40 cigarrillos por día, trabajador de la huerta expuesto a productos fitosanitarios que consultó por epistaxis recurrentes por fosa nasal derecha y ligera obstrucción respiratoria, a la exploración se observó una masa de color negruzco que ocupaba la fosa nasal derecha dependiente del cornete inferior derecho, el diagnóstico histopatológico fue de melanoma maligno; recibió tratamiento quirúrgico y radioterápico con evolución favorable. Revisamos la literatura de este raro tumor nasosinusal.

Malignant melanoma of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses is a rare disease, represents less than 1% of all melanomas. The symptoms are nonspecificand therefore diagnosis difficult. Has very poor prognosis, with low survival rates. We report a 66 year old smoking 30-40 cigarettes per day, orchard worker exposed to pesticides consulted for recurrent epistaxis by right nostril and light airway obstruction, exploration was observed a mass blackish located in the lower right turbinate, histopathological diagnosis was malignant melanoma; He received surgical and radiotherapy with favorable outcome. We review the literature on this rare sinonasal tumor. inferior turbinate.

Corneal melanosis successfully treated using topical mitomycin-C and alcohol corneal epitheliectomy: a 3-year follow-up case report / Tratamento com êxito da melanose de córnea utilizando mitomicina-C tópica e epiteliectomia auxiliada por álcool: relato de caso com três anos de seguimento

ABSTRACTWe report a case of primary acquired corneal melanosis without atypia associated with corneal haze in a patient with a history of limbal malignant melanoma and the effect of mitomycin-C. A 75-year-old woman with a history of limbal malignant melanoma presented with loss of vision in right eye. Corneal examination showed a patchy melanotic pigmentation with a central haze. Topical mitomycin-C improved visual acuity and corneal haze. However, the pigmented lesions persisted, and they were removed with alcohol corneal epitheliectomy. Histopathological examination demonstrated primary acquired melanosis without atypia. The lesions were successfully removed, and there were no recurrences during the follow-up period of 36 months. The association of conjunctival and corneal melanosis without atypia is a rare condition. In addition, co-existence of central corneal haze and melanosis may decrease visual acuity. Topical mitomycin-C and alcohol corneal epitheliectomy can be useful treatments in this condition.

RESUMORelatar um caso de melanose adquirida primária de córnea sem atipia, associado a haze corneano em um paciente com história de melanoma maligno de limbo e o efeito da mitomicina-C. Uma mulher de 75 anos de idade, com história de melanoma maligno do limbo apresentado com diminuição de visão no olho direito. O exame de córnea mostrou uma pigmentação melânica irregular com um haze central. O uso de mitomicina-C tópica levou à melhora da acuidade visual e da opacidade corneana. No entanto, as lesões pigmentadas persistiram e foram removidas com epiteliectomia associada ao álcool. O exame histopatológico demonstrou melanose adquirida primária sem atipia. As lesões foram removidas com êxito, e não houve recidiva durante o período de acompanhamento de 36 meses. A associação melanose sem atipia da conjuntiva e da córnea é uma condição rara. Além disso, a coexistência de haze corneano central e melanose pode diminuir a acuidade visual. O uso de mitomicina-C tópica e epiteliectomia corneana auxiliada pelo álcool podem ser tratamentos úteis nessa situação.

[Primary malignant melanoma of the central nervous system: A diagnostic challenge]. / Melanoma maligno primario del sistema nervioso central: un reto diagnóstico.

BACKGROUND: The rare incidence of primary malignant melanoma of the central nervous system and its ability to mimic other melanocytic tumors on images makes it a diagnostic challenge for the neurosurgeon. CLINICAL CASE: A 51-year-old patient, with a tumor located in the right forniceal callosum area. Total surgical excision was performed. Histopathological result was consistent with the diagnosis of primary malignant melanoma of the central nervous system, after ruling out extra cranial and extra spinal melanocytic lesions. CONCLUSIONS: The primary malignant melanoma of the central nervous system is extremely rare. There are features in magnetic resonance imaging that increase the diagnostic suspicion; nevertheless there are other tumors with more prevalence that share some of these features through image. Since there is not an established therapeutic standard its prognosis is discouraging.

Caracterización clínica e histopatológica de melanomas malignos de piel / Biopsy-based clinical and histopathological characterization of cutaneous malignant melanoma

Antecedentes: la incidencia del melanoma cutáneo ha venido en aumento en las últimas décadas, convirtiéndose en causa importante de muerte a nivel mundial. El objetivo es determinar la incidencia y caracterizar los melanomas con base en los resultados de las biopsias del Servicio de Patología del Hospital San Rafael de Alajuela. Métodos: se realizó la revisión histopatológica de cada una de las biopsias diagnosticadas como melanoma maligno de piel, con tinciones de hematoxilina y eosina, en el periodo comprendido de enero de 2009 a diciembre de 2012, para determinar sus características histopatológicas. Se obtuvieron frecuencias simples de todas las variables y medidas de tendencia central y dispersión para las variables cuantitativas...

Sentinel node biopsy for melanoma. Analysis of our experience (125 patients).

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this study is to analyze our experience in the use of sentinel node biopsy (SNB) in melanoma and identify the predictive factors of positive SNB and multiple drainage. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of patients who underwent SNB for melanoma between August of 2000 and February of 2013. RESULTS: SNB was performed in 125 patients with a median of age of 55,6 (±15) years. The anatomic distribution was: 44 (35,2%) in legs, 24 (19,2%) in arms, 53 (42,4%) trunk and 3 (2,4%) in head and neck. The median Breslow index was 1,81 (0,45-5). Between 1 and 6 nodes were isolated. The drainage was unique in 98 (78,4%) and multiple in 27 (21,6%). The trunk was the localization of 25 (92,6%) nodes with multiple drainage. The definitive result of sentinel node (SN) was positive in 18 cases (7,1%). Breslow thickness (p=0,01) was statistically significant predictor of a positive SNB. CONCLUSIONS: The SNB allows patients to be selected for lymphadenectomy. Melanoma of the trunk was the principle location of multiple drainage. The only predictive factor of positive SNB was Breslow thickness.

Melanoma Cutâneo: aspectos clínicos, epidemiológicos e anatomopatológicos de um centro de formação em Belo Horizonte / Cutaneous melanoma: clinical, epidemiological, and anatomopathological aspects of a training center in Belo Horizonte

Introdução: O melanoma cutâneo maligno (MCM) constitui cerca de 5% dos tumores cutâneos malignos e apresenta crescente incidência e alta letalidade. O objetivo deste estudo é rever as características clínicas, epidemiológicas e anatomopatológicas do MCM em pacientes tratados nos serviços de Cirurgia Plástica e Anatomia Patológica de um hospital geral. Método: Dados de 45 pacientes, correspondendo a 47 lesões, tratados entre 2011 e 2013, foram revisados. Estudou-se: gênero e idade dos pacientes, localização e características histopatológicas das lesões. Resultados: Vinte e quatro pacientes eram do gênero masculino e 21 do feminino. A média de idade à consulta foi de 61,9 anos. Vinte e quatro neoplasias localizaramse nas extremidades, 14 acometeram o tronco e nove a face. Quanto ao diagnóstico histológico, 34,0% dos tumores consistiu-se em melanoma in situ e 66,0% em melanoma invasor. Neste grupo, 14 lesões correspondiam ao tipo nodular, 12 ao extensivo superficial, três ao acral lentiginoso e dois ao lentigo maligno. A biópsia de linfonodo sentinela foi realizada em 14 melanomas invasores, com positividade em quatro procedimentos. Dentre as linfadenectomias realizadas, quatro mostraram-se positivas para metástase. No momento do diagnóstico, quatro pacientes apresentavam metástase em trânsito e três com metástase linfonodal. Recidiva tumoral local foi verificada em dois casos. Em relação ao estadiamento, 14 pacientes encontravam-se no estádio 0, 11 no I, 10 no II e 10 no III. Conclusão: Os dados deste estudo corroboram os achados da literatura. O diagnóstico e tratamento cirúrgico precoce permanecem o melhor caminho para o aumento da sobrevida.

Introduction: Malignant cutaneous melanoma (MCM) comprises nearly 5% of all malignant cutaneous tumors and shows increasing incidence and a high mortality. The objective of this study is to review the clinical, epidemiological, and anatomopathological characteristics of MCM in patients treated at the plastic surgery and pathological anatomy services of a general hospital. Method: Data corresponding to 47 lesions from 45 patients treated between 2011 and 2013 were reviewed. We analyzed the sex and age of patients, as well as the site and histopathological characteristics of the lesions. Results: A total of 24 patients were men and 21 were women. Their average age at the medical appointment was 61.9 years. Twenty-four neoplasias were in the extremities, 14 in the torso, and 9 in the face. Concerning histological diagnosis, 34.0% of the tumors were in situ melanoma and 66.0% were invasive melanoma. In the latter group, 14 lesions corresponded to the nodular melanoma type, 12 to the superficial spreading, three to the acral lentiginous, and two to the malignant lentigo melanoma type. Sentinel node biopsy was performed in 14 invasive melanomas, with 4 being positive. Among the lymphadenectomies performed, four were positive for metastasis. At diagnosis, four patients showed in-transit metastasis, whereas three patients had lymph node metastasis. Local tumor relapse was observed in two cases. Concerning tumor staging, 14 patients were in stage 0, 11 in stage I, 10 in stage II, and 10 in stage III. Conclusion: The data from this study support the findings described in the literature. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment remain the best way to increase survival.

Melanoma maligno: presentación de un caso / Malignant Melanoma, a case report

El melanoma maligno es una neoplasia de la piel altamente agresiva que en las últimas décadas ha tenido un aumento constante y rápido de su incidencia. Está caracterizado por el crecimiento incontrolado de las células productoras de pigmento que puede afectar los nódulos linfáticos y órganos internos, lo que puede resultar letal. El melanoma se presenta habitualmente en adultos de todos los grupos de edad, con una incidencia máxima entre los 30 y 60 años. En general afecta a ambos sexos de forma similar, aunque en el momento actual parece que la frecuencia en algunos países es ligeramente superior en varones. Al llegar a la consulta externa de dermatología del Hospital General Docente Dr Ernesto Guevara de la Serna, una paciente con lesiones en piel de alrededor de un año de evolución, de aspecto polimorfo, localizadas en calcáneo del pie izquierdo, dado por lesión de 8cm x 6cm, irregular, hiperpigmentada y en el centro de aspecto nodular y segregante que inicialmente se realiza biopsia e informa un léntigo maligno; luego se toma otra muestra de la parte nodular segregante donde se le diagnostica un melanoma maligno grado IV en la escala de Clark (AU)

Malignant melanoma is a highly aggressive neoplasia of the skin with a constant and rapid increasing incidence in the last decades. It is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of the pigment-producing cells; it can spread to lymph nodes and by extension to internal organs and may result in death. Melanoma is most commonly diagnosed among adults of all age groups with a higher incidence between 30 and 60 years old. It usually affects both sexes in the same way, although in some countries the incidence is higher among males. This study presents a case of a patient who came to the dermatology consulting room of Ernesto Guevara Hospital with skin lesions of about one year of evolution, polymorphic aspect, located on her left foot calcaneum with an irregular, hyperpigmented wound and in its center showed a nodular and segregating aspect. In a first moment the skin biopsy informed a lentigo maligna, then with a second sampler of the center wound was diagnosed a malignant melanoma stage IV in the Clark scale (AU)