Primary retromolar malignant melanoma in a Latin American patient

Abstract

Primary malignant melanoma of the oral mucosa is rare and has scarcely been reported in patients from Latin America. The most frequently affected sites include the palate and gingiva of the maxilla. In this report, we describe primary malignant melanoma in a Latin American patient. A 3 × 3.5-cm black tumor was observed on the upper left retromolar area. The lesion exhibited a sessile base, irregular edges, soft consistency, and pain on palpation. Immunohistochemistry staining results were positive for S100 and HMB-45; the Ki-67 index was 20%. Contrast tomography of the skull, face, abdomen, and thorax, as well as ultrasound of the liver, did not reveal metastatic lesions. The patient underwent wide surgical excision of the lesion, followed by radiotherapy; he was subsequently rehabilitated with a somato prosthesis.

Pigmented Malignant Lesion of Central Arch Gingiva of Mandible

“…The present index case showed spindled shaped cells that were immunopositive for HMB-45, CD117, and BRAF. The histopathological and immunohistochemistry (IHC) findings of the present case were concordant with previously reported cases [ 4 , 6 , 7 , 9 ].…”

“…The primary incidence of OMM is higher in Asians and African ethnicities, as these races have a high prevalence of melanin pigmentation in the oral mucosa. Both palate and maxillary gingiva constitute approximately 80% cases of OMM with peak age between 65 to 79 years [ 1 , 7 ]. Tavares et al studied pigmented lesions in the oral cavity.…”

“…The tumor thickness >5mm, ulceration, and >10 mitoses per high power field are proposed as independent prognostic factors [ 1 ]. The early and rapid diagnosis with treatment may help to enhance the prognosis [ 4 , 6 , 7 ]. Hence, histopathology evaluation will be desired in all suspected oral pigmentations [ 6 ].…”