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A Case of Gallbladder Metastasis of Malignant Melanoma
Hitoshi Minagi1, Hideki Aoki1, Susumu Doita1
1Department of Surgery, National Hospital Organization, Iwakuni Clinical Center.
Abstract:
In the clinical course of malignant melanoma, which can metastasize to multiple organs, gallbladder metastases are rarely detected. A 69-year-old man who underwent resection of a primary malignant melanoma was subsequently treated with nivolumab for lung metastases and achieved complete response. Seven years after surgery, multiple nodules were found in the gallbladder, and he underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The postoperative diagnosis was metastases of malignant melanoma. He has been recurrence-free 8 months after surgery. If radical resection is possible, such surgery should be performed for gallbladder metastases found in patients with other controlled lesions of malignant melanoma.
Insights
Malignant melanoma rarely spreads to the gallbladder. Surgical removal of gallbladder metastases in melanoma patients with controlled disease offers a chance for recurrence-free survival.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Medical Oncology
Background:
- Malignant melanoma is a cancer known for its potential to metastasize to various organs.
- Gallbladder metastases from malignant melanoma are exceptionally rare clinical findings.
- Early detection and management of metastatic melanoma are crucial for patient outcomes.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old male patient with a history of resected primary malignant melanoma developed lung metastases.
- The patient achieved a complete response to nivolumab therapy for lung metastases.
- Seven years post-surgery, multiple nodules appeared in the gallbladder, necessitating a laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Findings:
- Postoperative pathological examination confirmed the gallbladder nodules as metastases from malignant melanoma.
- The patient remained recurrence-free for 8 months following the gallbladder surgery.
- This case highlights the possibility of late-onset gallbladder metastasis in melanoma patients.
Implications:
- Radical resection should be considered for gallbladder metastases in melanoma patients when other metastatic sites are controlled.
- Surgical intervention for rare metastatic sites can potentially lead to long-term disease-free survival.
- This case underscores the importance of vigilant surveillance for unusual metastatic patterns in melanoma survivors.
