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[Malignant melanoma of the gallbladder]
D Longwitz1, H G Schulz, A Bosse
1Radiologische Klinik der Augusta-Kranken-Anstalt, Akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus Bochum.
Ultraschall in Der Medizin (Stuttgart, Germany : 1980)
|August 1, 1996
Summary
A rare primary malignant melanoma of the gallbladder was diagnosed in a 75-year-old woman presenting with abdominal pain. Imaging revealed characteristic "school of fish" reflections, indicating metastatic melanoma.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Primary gallbladder melanoma is exceedingly rare.
- Malignant melanoma can metastasize to various organs, including the gallbladder.
Observation:
- A 75-year-old woman presented with right upper quadrant abdominal pain, mimicking acute cholecystitis.
- Ultrasound revealed hyperechogenic intraluminal "school of fish" reflections and lacked intravesical fluid.
- Computed tomography showed solid intraluminal masses with mixed density reticular structures.
Findings:
- The gallbladder tumor did not invade beyond its wall.
- Sonographic findings were highly suggestive of metastatic melanoma to the gallbladder.
- CT demonstrated intraluminal masses with complex internal architecture.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering metastatic melanoma in the differential diagnosis of gallbladder masses.
- Characteristic imaging findings can aid in early diagnosis.
- Further research into the presentation and management of primary gallbladder melanoma is warranted.