Primary Laryngeal Melanoma

Abstract

Malignant melanoma of the larynx is a rare disease. Only 52 cases have been reported in the literature, 1,2 mostly among white men. 3 Of the cases described, only 10 showed “in situ change,” 1,3–5 which is an important criterion for diagnosis of primary melanoma. We present an Asian woman diagnosed with primary melanoma of the larynx. This patient demonstrated a polypoid tumor and 4 flat patches over the supraglottic region. Microscopically, both “in situ change” and “melanosis” were noted. Primary melanoma of the larynx transformed from mucosal melanosis was strongly suspected. The patient received total laryngectomy and bilateral modified neck dissection. No local recurrence was noted, but lung and liver metastasis were proven 5 months later. The patient finally died of disseminated disease.