Melanoomassa

Melanoomassa is the term used to describe a tissue mass that is composed predominantly of melanoma cells. In clinical use, it may denote either a primary melanoma presenting as a solid nodular lesion on the skin or mucosal surfaces, or a metastatic deposit of melanoma forming a discrete mass in lymph nodes or distant sites. The name derives from melano- (pigment) and -oma (tumor), with massa meaning mass.

Clinical presentation typically includes a growing, pigmented or variegated lesion that may ulcerate, bleed, or itch. Melanoomassa can occur on sun-exposed skin but also in mucosal regions and, in the eye, within the uveal tract. Metastatic lesions represent spread to regional nodes or distant organs.

Diagnosis relies on histopathology from biopsy or excision. Microscopy shows malignant melanocytes with variable pigment, invasion into surrounding tissue, and possibly ulceration. Immunohistochemistry is usually positive for S-100, HMB-45, and Melan-A. Genetic testing may identify mutations in BRAF, NRAS, or KIT, which can influence systemic treatment decisions.

Staging follows established melanoma criteria, incorporating tumor thickness (Breslow depth), ulceration status, and presence of nodal or distant metastasis to guide prognosis and therapy. Management depends on stage and site and often includes surgical excision with appropriate margins and consideration of sentinel lymph node biopsy. Adjuvant systemic therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (for example, pembrolizumab or nivolumab) or combined BRAF/MEK inhibitors for BRAF-mutant tumors, may be used. Radiotherapy is considered for local control in selected cases.

Prognosis varies with stage at diagnosis and molecular features. Early detection and treatment generally improve outcomes.

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