Immunotherapy for anorectal melanoma: A case report

Abstract

Anorectal mucosal melanoma (AMM) is a rare and aggressive malignancy. Although treatment of AMM involves a multimodal approach, including surgical excision, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, there is insufficient evidence to conclude any standardized protocol for treatment. Here we demonstrate a case of a 62-year-old female who presented with rectal bleeding and changes in bowel habits. A colonoscopy revealed a mass at the posterior dentate line, and a subsequent biopsy confirmed AMM. She underwent immunotherapy for 10 months, and by her 1-year follow-up, several surveillance studies remained negative for recurrence. While surgical excision with adjuvant therapy provides the most favorable prognosis, recent literature suggests immunotherapy as an effective treatment.1 This case highlights the treatment of AMM using immunotherapy as a neoadjuvant and maintenance therapy after surgical excision.