Oral malignant melanoma - Clinical presentation with immunohistochemical analysis

Oral melanoma is a rare malignancy with poor prognosis because of its invasive and metastasizing tendencies. It is derived from the melanocytes and is clinically asymptomatic initially but in later stages may show ulceration, pain, bleeding, tooth mobility, and parasthesia. Because of its silent progression, diagnosis is often delayed leading to poor survival rate. This article presents the clinical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical findings of a rare case of melanoma involving the maxilla and also highlights the importance of dental professionals in maintaining a high degree of surveillance for all oral pigmented lesions.