Dedifferentiated primary melanoma with rhabdoid features: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Rhabdoid melanoma is an aggressive, rare variant of melanoma. Herein, we describe a case of rhabdoid melanoma and review the clinicopathological features of this neoplasm. A 59-year-old Caucasian female presented with a large cavitary wound located on her right posteromedial upper torso. Light microscopy of the lesion revealed patternless sheeting of neoplastic cells with cytoplasm containing eosinophilic inclusions and peripherally located large round-to-oval nuclei. Tumor cells stained positive for S100, Sox10, myoD1, desmin, and vimentin. CT imaging of the abdomen, chest, and pelvis demonstrated bilateral cannonball lung tumors, bilateral axillary and mediastinal lymphadenopathy, and a soft tissue mass involving the left upper back. These findings were consistent with a diagnosis of metastatic rhabdoid melanoma, which ultimately resulted in the patient’s demise. Increased awareness of this rare entity is crucial to the practicing physician in order to enhance recognition and provide the best possible healthcare to affected individuals.