Delayed metastatic melanoma to the pharyngeal tonsil in a Chinese male

Abstract

Background: Melanoma is a relatively uncommon malignant neoplasm, either primary or secondary. We present a case of delayed metastatic melanoma to the pharyngeal tonsil. Case report: A 70-year-old Chinese male presented for half a year due to vague speech and snoring and then found tonsil enlargement. Three years prior to presentation, he had undergone primary resection and systemic therapy for cutaneous melanoma on the sole of his foot. Tonsil biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic melanoma. Currently the patient is undergoing chemotherapy. Conclusion: Metastatic melanoma is a rare disease, and metastatic lesions may occur at any location. For the long-term survival of patients, careful examination should be done during the follow-up period, including head and neck. Keywords: metastatic melanoma; tonsillar neoplasms.