Primary Gastric Melanoma: A Rare Diagnostic Entity – A Case Report

Muhammad  Raza; Ayesha  Tariq; Ali  Raza

doi:10.54112/bcsrj.v6i6.1831

Authors

Muhammad Raza Department of Thoracic Surgery, Nishtar Medical University and Hospital, Multan, Pakistan
Ayesha Tariq Department of Thoracic Surgery, Nishtar Medical University and Hospital, Multan, Pakistan
Ali Raza Department of Thoracic Surgery, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54112/bcsrj.v6i6.1831

Keywords:

Gastric melanoma, Primary melanoma, Hematemesis, Gastrectomy, Immunohistochemistry

Abstract

Primary gastric melanoma is an extremely rare malignancy, with the majority of gastrointestinal melanomas being secondary to cutaneous lesions. Its diagnosis is challenging due to nonspecific symptoms and the need for histopathological confirmation. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 55-year-old male presenting with a year-long history of hematemesis, vague chest discomfort, epigastric pain, fatigue, melena, and significant weight loss. Endoscopic examination revealed multiple pigmented polypoid masses in the stomach. Biopsy and immunohistochemistry confirmed malignant melanoma. No cutaneous, ocular, or anorectal primary lesion was identified. The patient underwent total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y esophagojejunostomy and regional lymphadenectomy. Conclusion: Primary gastric melanoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, mainly when pigmented lesions are observed. Early diagnosis and surgical resection are critical, although prognosis remains poor due to its aggressive behavior and early metastatic potential.

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