Extensive Perineural Spread of Subungual Melanoma

Nikhil K. Murthy, Stephen M. Broski, Kimberly K. Amrami, Svetomir N. Markovic, Robert J. Spinner

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background: Subungual melanoma (SUM) is a rare form of melanoma confined to the nailbed and is rarely of the desmoplastic subtype. The often subtle nature of SUM, initially starting as a small dark spot or line in the nailbed, means deeper invasion can occur before a patient seeks clinical evaluation for a large, ulcerated lesion. We report the only known case of perineural spread of SUM of the lower extremity and describe its extensive path of perineural spread from the toe. Case Description: A 72-year-old man with a distant history of SUM status post second ray amputation, presented for evaluation of ipsilateral foot drop. Imaging revealed nodular involvement of tibial, peroneal, and sciatic nerves. Biopsies revealed desmoplastic melanoma and he was treated with nivolumab. Conclusions: We report the only known case of perineural spread of SUM of the lower extremity and describe the pathoanatomy of perineural spread. A high index of suspicion for recurrent disease should be maintained even many years after completion of treatment.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)98-101
Number of pages4
JournalWorld neurosurgery
Volume145
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2021

Keywords

  • Desmoplastic
  • Melanoma
  • Perineural spread
  • Subungual

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Clinical Neurology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Extensive Perineural Spread of Subungual Melanoma'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this