Published online Feb 26, 2023. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i6.1426
Peer-review started: December 18, 2022
First decision: January 3, 2023
Revised: January 7, 2023
Accepted: February 7, 2023
Article in press: February 7, 2023
Published online: February 26, 2023
Processing time: 68 Days and 4.2 Hours
Primary malignant melanoma of the esophagus (PMME) is a rare malignant disease whose clinical and molecular pathological features, origin and pathoge
In this paper, we report a case of a 73-year-old male with PMME. The patient complained of progressive dysphagia accompanied by substantial weight loss. Gastroscopy revealed a purple black bulging-type mass in the lower esophagus with easy bleeding on contact and scattered satellite lesions in the stomach. Histopathological biopsy revealed melanocytes in the esophageal mucosa. Physical examination and multidisciplinary consultation led to diagnostic exclusion of melanoma originating in other organs, such as the skin. Through this case report and literature review, we aimed to describe the clinical and molecular pathological features of PMME and summarize possible pathways of pathoge
PMME is a rare malignancy of the esophagus with a poor prognosis. Clinicians should raise their awareness and be able to identify early lesions.
Core Tip: We report a case of a 73-year-old male with primary malignant melanoma of the esophagus (PMME) and extensive systemic multiple metastases, with an unavoidable mortality outcome despite aggressive diagnosis and treatment. Through this case report and literature review, we aimed to further improve clinicians' understanding of the clinical and molecular pathological features, origin and pathogenesis of PMME, to avoid misdiagnosis and missed diagnoses, to present cutting-edge treatment advances and to develop individualized and comprehensive treatment plans tailored to patients in an effort to improve their clinical outcomes.