Abstract
BACKGROUNDPrimary spinal melanoma is extremely rare, accounting for ∼1% of all primary melanomas. Typically presenting insidiously in the thoracic spinal cord, primary spinal melanomas can have an acute presentation due to their propensity to hemorrhage.OBSERVATIONSDespite its rarity, primary spinal melanoma should be included in the differential diagnosis when a hemorrhagic pattern of T1 and T2 intensities is seen on magnetic resonance imaging. Furthermore, the complete diagnosis is crucial because the prognosis of a primary spinal melanoma is considerably more favorable than that of a primary cutaneous melanoma with metastatic spread.LESSONSResection is the treatment of choice, with some authors advocating for postoperative chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and/or radiation. We describe a case of acute quadriplegia from hemorrhagic primary spinal melanoma requiring resection.
Highlights
Primary spinal melanoma is extremely rare, accounting for 1% of all primary melanomas
We report a case of acute hemorrhagic primary malignant melanoma of the spinal cord, including its presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome
Melanomas can occur in any anatomical site that contains melanocytes, including the central nervous system (CNS).[4]
Summary
Primary spinal melanoma is extremely rare, accounting for 1% of all primary melanomas. Presenting insidiously in the thoracic spinal cord, primary spinal melanomas can have an acute presentation due to their propensity to hemorrhage. We describe a case of acute quadriplegia from hemorrhagic primary spinal melanoma requiring resection. Primary malignant melanoma of the spinal cord is a rare finding, accounting for
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