Primary melanoma of the palatine tonsil in an adult Filipino patient: A case report
https://doi.org/10.32412/pjohns.v39i2.1905
- Author:
Katrin Louise D. Cabataña
1
;
Duane L .Salud
1
Author Information
1. Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Southern Philippines Medical Center
- Publication Type:Case Reports
- Keywords:
primary;
mucosal
- MeSH:
Palatine Tonsil;
Melanoma
- From:
Philippine Journal of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery
2024;39(2):45-48
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objectives:To discuss a case of primary melanoma of the palatine tonsil in a 57-year-old man presented with a dark, pigmented tonsillar mass initially managed as a case of arterio-venous malformation, and review the literature on its presentation, diagnosis, management and outcomes.
Methods
Design:Case Report
Setting:Tertiary Government Training Hospital
Patient:One
Results:A 57-year-old man presented with a pigmented, bluish-black mass (7.2 cm) on the right tonsillar area with dysphagia and odynophagia. A CT scan interpretation considered large tonsillar malignancy, right with infiltrations of the soft palate, lingual tonsils and pre-epiglottic space. The initial impression was an arteriovenous malformation and preoperative arterial embolization was followed by a tonsillectomy. The final biopsy result was mucosal melanoma. Refusing further treatment, he expired nine months later in the emergency room, after presenting with decreasing sensorium and desaturations, jaundice and abdominal distension.
Conclusion:To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of tonsillar melanoma in the Philippines. Primary tonsillar melanoma is rare but its diagnosis is still possible (although it is usually diagnosed in advanced stages). Despite improvement in surgical techniques and adjuvant therapies, its prognosis remains poor. Regular oral cavity screening may help in early detection.
- Full text:202412031101344736P.pdf
