Abstract

RUBIO-CORREA, Isidoro et al. Mucosal melanoma in an extremely rare location: base of the tongue. A case presentation and literature review. Rev Esp Cirug Oral y Maxilofac [online]. 2015, vol.37, n.2, pp.99-102. ISSN 2173-9161.  https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.maxilo.2013.11.001.

Primary malignant melanoma of the oral cavity is a rare neoplasm, especially on the tongue. We report a case of mucosal melanoma at the base of the tongue, an extremely rare location (only about 30 cases have been reported in the literature). The extension study did not reveal any distant metastatic lesions. The patient was treated by sub-total glossectomy and bilateral functional neck dissection. The tongue is one of the most difficult structures to reconstruct, because of its central role in phonation, swallowing, and airway protection. The defect was reconstructed with an anterolateral thigh free flap. Surgical treatment was supplemented with adjuvant radiotherapy and immunotherapy. The post-operative period was uneventful. At present, 13 months after surgery, patient is asymptomatic, with no evidence of recurrence of melanoma and has no difficulty in swallowing or phonation.

Keywords : Malignant mucosal melanoma; Anterolateral thigh free flap; Phonation; Swallowing.

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