Laparoscopic hemicolectomy for cutaneous malignant melanoma metastasis to the ileocaecal valve

Abstract

Colonic tumours are most frequently primary and lesions secondary to metastasis are uncommon. Malignant melanoma is an aggressive cancer, with a tendency to metastasize and recur. This report describes the case of a 66-year-old man who underwent wide local excision and adjuvant therapy for malignant melanoma three years prior to presentation with loose stools, abdominal cramps and iron deficiency anaemia. CT colonography showed a 6cm ileocaecal mass, and following a laparoscopic right hemicolectomy, histological examination revealed a metastatic melanoma to the ileocaecal valve. Subsequent positron emission tomography showed no residual metastatic disease. Malignant melanoma metastasis to the colon is a rare clinical entity. Metastectomy via laparoscopic right hemicolectomy is an appropriate and effective treatment.