Neurotropic melanoma with prominent melanization

Area of Science:

• Dermatopathology
• Oncology
• Melanoma Research

Background:

• Neurotropic melanoma is often associated with desmoplastic melanoma and minimal melanin.
• Previous descriptions predominantly feature amelanotic or hypomelanotic tumors.
• Understanding the full spectrum of melanoma presentation is crucial for diagnosis.

Observation:

• A rare case of neurotropic melanoma with prominent melanin content was identified.
• The tumor exhibited superficial spreading melanoma with partial regression.
• A deep component showed perineurial melanophages and intraneural melanoma cell infiltration.

Findings:

• Neurotropic melanoma can present with substantial melanin.
• Melanophages and melanoma cells can infiltrate perineural spaces and nerves.
• Pagetoid melanoma with regression can coexist with neurotropism.

Implications:

• Dermatopathologists should consider melanin-rich tumors in the differential diagnosis of neurotropic melanoma.
• This finding expands the recognized spectrum of neurotropic melanoma.
• Accurate diagnosis requires awareness of diverse histopathological presentations.