primary malignant esophageal melanoma in a 47-year-old woman: a case report and review of literature

introduction primary malignant esophageal melanoma makes up 0.1% to 0.2% of all esophageal malignancies. most physicians assume malignant melanoma as a skin originated neoplasm, however this type of melanoma can occur anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract especially in the esophagus. thus, it is essential to consider malignant melanoma in differential diagnosis of any esophagus masses. case presentation in this study introduces a case of primary malignant esophageal melanoma and the method of investigation based on the patient’s complains. then, evaluates the best method of treatment and assess prognosis and survival of our studied case. macroscopic pathology findings include 5 × 3.5 cm tumor which was located in the one-third distal part of the esophagus. moreover, pathology investigations reported melanoma tumor cells with melanin granules in squamous epithelium of esophagus with submucosal invasion. discussion in order to detect malignant melanoma as soon as possible, whole body examinations are required. besides, the patient’s complaints are important as well. after malignancy exploration, selection of the most appropriate treatment is the ultimate goal. education of health care providers reduces the burden of such malignancy for both patients and the health care system.