Published online Oct 6, 2021. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i28.8498
Peer-review started: May 19, 2021
First decision: June 15, 2021
Revised: June 27, 2021
Accepted: July 30, 2021
Article in press: July 30, 2021
Published online: October 6, 2021
Processing time: 132 Days and 7.3 Hours
Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular malignant tumor affecting the eyes in adults. Nearly half of all primary uveal melanoma tumors metastasize; yet, there are currently no effective treatments for metastatic uveal melanoma. At the time of diagnosis, less than 4% of patients with uveal melanoma have detectable metastatic disease. Uveal melanoma disseminates hematogenously, with the most common site of metastasis being liver (93%), followed by lung (24%) and bone (16%).
A 57-year-old woman was diagnosed with a dysplastic nevus on her eyelid, which was histologically confirmed as malignant melanoma after resection. The patient had no evidence of metastasis to other organs and received both radiation therapy and chemotherapy. After systemic treatment, a metastatic left neck lymph node was found and another round of chemotherapy was performed after resection. Positron emission tomography-Computed Tomography tracking after completion of chemotherapy revealed two metastatic liver nodules. The patient underwent partial liver resection and showed no signs of recurrence at 1 year after surgery.
Surgery is an effective treatment for metastatic uveal melanoma. In patients with liver metastatic lesions, hepatectomy improves outcome.
Core Tip: Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular malignant tumor affecting the eyes in adults. Nearly half of all primary uveal melanoma tumors metastasize; yet, there are currently no effective treatments for metastatic uveal melanoma. We reported a case of malignant melanoma. We found that the surgical approach to treatment of uveal melanoma with liver metastases improves prognosis.