Nodular Melanoma in a 53-year-old Male with Glioblastoma Multiforme: A Rare Case Report

Abstract

Although melanoma only accounts for 1% of skin cancers, it is responsible for most skin cancer deaths. Glioblastoma multiforme, a high-grade astrocytoma, is the most aggressive and devastating primary brain tumor. These two diseases remain to be the biggest therapeutic challenge in both specialties of dermatology and neuro-oncology.

A 53-year-old Filipino male who presented with a 2-year history of generalized dark brown and black patches on the body developed weakness and numbness of the left extremities. Biopsy and immunohistochemical staining of the skin revealed nodular melanoma with adjacent regressing melanoma. Biopsy of the intracranial mass showed glioblastoma multiforme. One month after the partial excision of the intracranial mass, the patient expired due to brain herniation.

Nodular melanoma and glioblastoma multiforme may occur concomitantly in a patient. A review of the literature
suggests a shared genetic predisposition. Its existence carries a poor prognosis and requires early detection to start aggressive treatment.