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Metastatic melanoma presenting as a perforated small bowel
Maitham Alwhouhayb1, Pawan Mathur, Muna Al Bayaty
1Barnet General Hospital, London, England. maithamalwhouhayb@hotmail.com
Summary
Metastatic malignant melanoma can rarely cause small bowel tumors, leading to perforation and peritonitis. Patients with a history of melanoma require thorough evaluation for subtle abdominal symptoms, even years after remission.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Oncology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Malignant small bowel tumors are uncommon, with melanoma being a rare etiology.
- Metastatic disease often presents insidiously, complicating early diagnosis.
Observation:
- A case of acute peritonitis secondary to a perforated small bowel tumor is reported.
- The tumor was diagnosed intraoperatively as malignant melanoma, presumed metastatic.
Findings:
- The patient presented with acute peritonitis due to a perforated small bowel tumor.
- Histopathological analysis confirmed metastatic malignant melanoma as the cause.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering metastatic melanoma in patients with unexplained abdominal symptoms.
- Underscores the need for vigilant long-term surveillance in melanoma survivors.
- Emphasizes prompt diagnostic work-up for non-specific abdominal complaints in high-risk individuals.
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