Spontaneous Regression Of Metastatic Malignant Melanoma
Clinical Oncology 4(3): Sep 1978; 203-207
View Original Source →Abstract
Two cases are presented of spontaneous regression of lymphatic and visceral metastases from malignant melanoma. In contrast to most previous reports of spontaneous regression of metastases from this disease, in this study the presence of metastases in both patients was confirmed by direct observation and histological examination. In each case, the possibility was investigated that an immune-stimulating event may have occurred.
Case Details
Personal Characteristics
Mr. J.a., a 41-year-old boilermaker
Clinical Characteristics
Small nonpigmented mole, lump in his right groin, secondary deposits of melanoma in nodes, multiple pulmonary emboli and pleural effusion at the base of the left lung, recurrent, severe colicky abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, intussusception of the ileum caused by a partially necrotic polypoid mass, metastatic malignant melanoma in the small intestine, wound abscess, cellulitis in his right leg, vitiligo on his arms and graft on the leg
Remission Characteristics
No evidence of further recurrence or metastases has been detected
Treatment & Mechanisms
Proposed Remission Mechanisms
Not discussed
Clinical Treatment
Wide local excision of the primary site and in-continuity block dissection of the groin, laparotomy, resection of small bowel with end-to-end anastomosis
Additional Notes
The patient was well for 5 months after the first operation, and nearly 10 years after the second operation