Amelanotic Melanoma Invading the Heart.

ABSTRACT

We present a case of a middle-aged woman who initially presented with shortness of breath but was ultimately found to have a large mass-like lesion in the right atrium of the heart with multi-modality imaging including cardiac computed tomography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and echocardiogram. Biopsy results were positive for amelanotic melanoma. The patient underwent extensive debridement surgery, and she was started on chemotherapy with a close follow-up with an oncologist. In the setting of an aggressive course of disease, unfortunately, the patient passed away secondary to sudden cardiac arrest.  Cardiac melanoma, also known as melanoma of the heart, is an extremely rare type of melanoma that originates in the heart. This case attributes to the professional growth and competency of healthcare providers involved in the care of patients with cardiac melanoma, ultimately aiming to optimize patient outcomes and quality of life. Due to its rarity and the challenges associated with its diagnosis and treatment, prognosis for cardiac melanoma is generally poor. However, advancement in cancer research and treatment may offer hope for improved outcomes in some cases.