Malignant melanoma of the sympathetic chain: with a consideration of pigmented nerve sheath tumours

Abstract

A case of malignant melanoma of the posterior mediastinum, arising from the sympathetic chain is reported. The structural features and the presence of long-spaced collagen on electron microscopic examination suggest schwannian derivation of the tumour. Similar tumours are reviewed and the histogenesis of pigmented nerve sheath tumours in general is discussed. The term 'malignant melanotic schwannoma' is probably the most appropriate for the tumour entity described here.

Diagnostic challenges of metastatic spindle cell melanoma on fine-needle aspiration specimens

“…3 It is noteworthy that, although the presence of cytoplasmic pigmentation is an important clue in establishing a melanocytic nature, the pigments can occasionally be identified in melanotic schwannoma and melanotic malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor. 18,19 Moreover, a peripheral nerve sheath tumor can express S-100, and it occasionally demonstrates melanosomes under an electron microscope, thus making a differential diagnosis even more challenging. 3,14 Misinterpretation usually occurs when the diagnosis is based solely on cytomorphologic features and an appropriate clinical history and ancillary workup are not available.…”

Orbital and myocardial metastases of a primary pulmonary melanotic schwannoma

“…However, as in our case, their biologic behaviour can be notoriously difficult to predict, and metastases can occur in the absence of overtly malignant features [7,8,10]. In a review of 60 cases in the literature, there was a 23% metastatic rate; however, only 53% of patients followed for more than 5 years were disease free, suggesting that long-term follow-up is probably necessary [12].…”

“…Due to its neural origin, pain and neurologic defi cits in the affected part are the most common presentations [2,3]. The presence of melanin gives the A thorough pathological study is pivotal for a correct diagnosis [1][2][3][7][8][9]. The neoplastic cells are predominantly spindled, with ill-defi ned cytoplasms, although there are usually also epithelioid cells that blend seamlessly with the fusiform ones.…”

Melanocytic schwannoma: The cytologic aspect in fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC): Report of a case located in the spinal cord

“…Different outcomes and therapeutic approaches have been recorded. '-3~8, 14 Malignant behavior including the fatal outcome of peripheral pigmented schwannomas has been referred to by Millar, Keller and Woodruff, 31 Fu et al, lo and Mennemeyer et al " In conclusion, the cytologic pattern and the immunophenotypic profile of this MS did not permit a confident diagnosis of MS, nor the exclusion of a spindle cell melanoma. Histologic confirmation of the primary tumor could not be achieved, and the absence of clinical evidence of melanoma in the sites mentioned above did not absolutely rule out a burnout melanoma or a melanoma located elsewhere.…”