Nasal mucosal melanoma presenting as central type vertigo: a case report

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Neurology
• Otorhinolaryngology

Background:

• Nasal mucosal melanoma is a rare malignancy.
• It typically presents with symptoms like epistaxis, nasal obstruction, and facial pain.
• Metastases can occur early, leading to unusual clinical manifestations.

Observation:

• A 74-year-old female presented with central vertigo, initially suspected as a neurological issue.
• Diagnostic workup identified brain metastases as the cause of her vertigo.
• The primary tumor was located in the nasal cavity, specifically the posterior left inferior turbinate.

Findings:

• This is the first reported instance of nasal mucosal melanoma presenting initially with vertigo.
• The patient's brain metastases were identified as the source of the vertiginous symptoms.
• The tumor originated from the nasal mucosa.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering rare diagnoses in patients with atypical symptoms.
• Early detection of nasal mucosal melanoma, even with unusual presentations like vertigo, is crucial.
• Combined radio and chemotherapy can be an effective treatment strategy, leading to relatively good patient condition post-treatment.