[Metastasis from a malignant melanoma presenting as a gall bladder polyp]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Gallbladder polyps exceeding 10 mm are associated with a higher risk of malignancy.
• Metastasis to the gallbladder is an uncommon presentation of distant cancer spread.

Observation:

• A 52-year-old woman presented with a large gallbladder polyp.
• This polyp was identified as a metastasis from a superficial spreading malignant melanoma.

Findings:

• The patient's malignant melanoma had been surgically resected eight years prior to this presentation.
• Common sites for malignant melanoma metastasis include soft tissue, lungs, liver, skin, and brain, with gallbladder metastasis being rare.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering rare metastatic sites in the differential diagnosis of large gallbladder polyps.
• Prompt referral of patients with large gallbladder polyps to specialized liver surgery centers is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.