Spontaneous Regression of Metastatic Malignant Melanoma

Abstract

Spontaneous regression of metastatic malignant melanoma is rare. A case is presented here. The primary lesion, a lentigo malignant melanoma of the face, recurred after excision and metastasized to the parotid and upper cervical lymph nodes, and to the lungs. The patient declined further therapy. There was no clinical or radiologic evidence of metastasis 1 year later.

Case Details

Personal Characteristics

Mrs. E. E., a 62-year-old housewife

Clinical Characteristics

Small malignant melanoma, lump in the left groin, secondary melanoma in nodes, local recurrence of melanoma in the groin, large mass in and around the groin scar, polymyositis

Remission Characteristics

The mass in her thigh had become considerably smaller and was clearly undergoing remission. By october, 1976, the mass had disappeared entirely

Treatment & Mechanisms

Proposed Remission Mechanisms

Not discussed

Clinical Treatment

Malignant melanoma removed from her left lower leg, radical dissection of the left inguinal nodes, attempted removal of the mass in the groin

Non-Clinical Treatment

One dose of intradermal bacillus calmette-guerin (bcg)

Additional Notes

Attempts at systemic chemotherapy were abandoned due to difficulty in cannulating her veins. She was classified as being in the terminal stages and was admitted to a terminal-care hospital. Three months later, she was discharged from this hospital feeling much better