Primary Melanoma of the Right Colon Presenting With Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Abstract

A 73 year old female presented with painless fresh rectal bleeding and anaemia. At colonoscopy, a large mass arising from the right colon was visualised and biopsied. Histological evaluation established a diagnosis of melanoma. Thorough clinical examination confirmed the presence of primary localised melanoma which was amenable to resection. At laparotomy, right hemicolectomy and lymphadenectomy were performed. Two years after her surgery, our patient is well without any evidence of disease recurrence. Primary melanoma of the colon is a very rare clinical entity and limited data are available regarding its pathogenesis, treatment and outcome. Primary surgical resection in localised disease appears to be the mainstay of treatment, although the role of adjuvant therapy is still to be established.