Orthopaedic Manifestations of Melanoma and Their Management

Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Although commonly seen in dermatologist clinics, orthopaedic surgeons must be aware of these lesions in various ways. The five common musculoskeletal manifestations of melanoma will be discussed as well as the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, staging, treatment, and prognosis of melanoma. With an index of suspicion and awareness of melanoma, a thorough history and detailed physical examination are critical in establishing a diagnosis. An adequately performed biopsy will confirm the diagnosis and assist in determining prognosis. As ambassadors of health for the musculoskeletal system, orthopaedic surgeons may be the first practitioners to encounter a pigmented skin lesion. Acral pigmented lesions should prompt a concern for melanoma with appropriate subsequent steps for management to follow. Finally, it is important for every orthopaedic surgeon to consider disseminated melanoma in the differential diagnosis of a skeletal metastasis, a deep soft-tissue mass, or lymphadenopathy in a patient with a previous history of a melanotic lesion.